Mabank Fire Chief Charlie Woodard, 38, was killed late Saturday after a vehicle struck him while he directed traffic outside the Mabank Rodeo, according to a family member and local officials.
Woodard’s sister confirmed his death but said the circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear, Fox 4 KDFW 4 reported. Woodard, who also served as a peace officer, was managing traffic outside the rodeo when he was hit by a pickup truck at approximately 10:30 p.m. The driver of the truck was not injured.
The Mabank Police Department said a vehicle was traveling westbound on West Mason Street when it struck the city official. Woodard received immediate medical attention at the scene before he was transported by ambulance to UT Health in Gun Barrel City. He died shortly thereafter at the hospital.
The department asked the public to keep Woodard’s family in their thoughts and prayers, adding that the fire chief’s family had requested privacy while grieving their loss.
“The Mabank Police Department would like to send our deepest condolences to Charlie’s family, friends, and fellow first responders. Charlie’s service and dedication to the citizens of Mabank will not be forgotten,” the department said in a social media post.
The mayor of the nearby city of Tool, Vera Bennett, issued a statement mourning the fire chief’s death.
“It is with profound sadness that I extend my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the City of Tool to the family, friends, and members of the Mabank Fire Department and Police Department following the passing of Fire Chief Charlie Woodard,” Bennett wrote on social media. “During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with Chief Woodard’s loved ones, his fellow firefighters, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him. We stand with the City of Mabank as we honor a remarkable public servant whose impact will be felt for generations to come.”
“May we all find comfort in the memories he leaves behind and strength in the example of selfless service he gave to us all,” she added.
The Mabank Police Department has not released official details about the crash, including whether any charges have been filed or what caused the collision. The department said that more information regarding the incident “will be released as it becomes available and as appropriate.”
The Texas Department of Public Safety is continuing the investigation into the crash.
