MABANK, Texas - A Mabank fire official died after being struck by a vehicle while helping direct traffic following a local event Saturday night, according to the Mabank Police Department.
Details on the Mabank rodeo traffic accident
What we know:
Charlie Woodard, who served as the Mabank Fire Marshal, was struck by a westbound vehicle while assisting with traffic control operations around 10:30 p.m. Saturday in the 700 block of West Mason Street, according to the Mabank Police Department.
Police said officers and Mabank Fire & Rescue personnel were conducting traffic control following the conclusion of a local event when the crash occurred.
Woodard received immediate medical attention at the scene before being transported by ground ambulance to UT Health in Gun Barrel City. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he died a short time after arriving at the hospital.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has taken over the crash investigation and is working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Texas communities mourn chief
Local perspective:
Texas communities mourn fire officials as the City of Tool's Mayor, Vera Bennett, confirmed Woodard's death in a statement.
"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 said. "We stand with the City of Mabank as we honor a remarkable public servant whose impact will be felt for generations to come."
The Mabank Police Department also expressed its condolences, saying Woodard's "service and dedication to the citizens of Mabank will not be forgotten." The department asked the public to keep Woodard's family, friends and fellow first responders in their thoughts and prayers, adding that the family has requested privacy as they grieve.
What we don't know:
Investigators have not released details about what led to the crash, whether the driver remained at the scene, or whether any charges are expected. Authorities have not identified additional factors that may have contributed to the collision.
What's next:
The Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the fatal crash. Officials said additional information will be released as it becomes available and is appropriate to share.
The Source: Information in this article was provided by city officials in the City of Tool and the Mabank Pol