Fiery Crash Claims Two Lives on Christmas Night in Concho County

PAINT ROCK, TX — A fiery head-on collision east of Eola on Christmas night left two people dead and one seriously injured, authorities reported.

This happened around 8:30 p.m. on FM 765 near Mile Marker 404, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. A 2014 Kia van traveling westbound crossed into the eastbound lane, striking another vehicle head-on and causing it to catch fire.

Marissa Powell, 24, of Houston, was driving the eastbound vehicle and died at the scene. Cecil Kelley, 79, of Eden, who was driving the van, was also pronounced deceased at the scene by Judge Amos.

Priscilla Kelley, 78, a passenger in the van, suffered serious injuries and was transported to Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo.

The weather was clear, and road conditions were dry at the time of the collision.

Texas DPS Trooper Graves Hunter spearheaded the investigation, with assistance from the Concho County Sheriff’s Office and the Wall Volunteer Fire Department.