Meagan Martin, Serenity Rivera killed in crash on State Highway 62

DPS says Dodge pickup crossed into oncoming traffic near Jasper-Newton County line

March 06, 2026 | Jasper, TX

A devastating three-vehicle crash on State Highway 62 claimed the lives of 35-year-old Meagan Martin and her 13-year-old daughter, Serenity Rivera, on Friday evening.

What Happened in the Crash?

Meagan Martin, 35, and Serenity Rivera, 13, died after a three-vehicle accident on State Highway 62 near the Jasper-Newton County line in Jasper County.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that a northbound Dodge pickup truck veered into oncoming traffic near the Jasper-Newton County line. The vehicle sideswiped a Honda passenger car before colliding head-on with a Chevrolet pickup truck around 8 p.m.

• Victims: Meagan Martin, 35, of Groves, pronounced dead at the scene, and Serenity Rivera, 13, transported to CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth, where she later died from injuries.
• Other Injuries: A 9-year-old passenger in the Chevrolet received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries, and the Dodge driver also sustained minor injuries.
• Location: State Highway 62, near Jasper-Newton County line, Jasper County.
• Date and Time: March 6, approximately 8 p.m.
• Investigation Status: Active, ongoing by DPS.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Motor vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of fatalities across Texas. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) documented 4,150 traffic-related deaths in the state in 2024.

Common contributing factors include:

Road conditions, visibility, and lighting may also play roles in such incidents, according to national safety analyses.

Legal Insights

In cases such as multi-vehicle collisions, thorough investigations are crucial for understanding the sequence of the crash and potential liabilities.

“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal. “An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision. Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the victim must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently.”

Key takeaways from legal perspectives on traffic accidents:

• Prompt evidence collection can strengthen compensation claims.
• Reconstruction professionals aid in determining fault in complex crashes.
• Families may pursue remedies for medical costs, lost income, and emotional impacts.

Pending the ongoing investigation, the family of Meagan Martin and Serenity Rivera may explore a wrongful death claim. Such actions can address losses including companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “We understand just what families must go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”

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