Texas mother loses husband and two children in tragic crash caused by illegal overtake

A heartbreaking accident in Grayson County, Texas, claimed the lives of a father and his two young children after a reckless driver crossed into oncoming traffic, leaving a mother alone to mourn the sudden loss of her entire immediate family.

The crash happened around midday on May 17, when 41-year-old Tommy Moorehead III was driving with his children—6-year-old Lynnlee and 4-year-old Tommy Jr.—through southern Grayson County, about an hour north of Dallas. The family was traveling in their Chevrolet Silverado when another driver made a dangerous move that would change everything.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, 63-year-old Rocky Patterson was driving a Dodge Ram 3500 and attempted to pass a large truck uphill in a no-passing zone. Patterson’s truck collided head-on with Moorehead’s vehicle. The impact was so severe that the Moorehead family’s truck caught fire.

Tragically, Tommy Moorehead III and his two children died at the scene. The crash has left their community shaken—and one woman completely heartbroken.

A mother’s unimaginable loss

Brooke Mustard Moorehead, the wife and mother of the victims, is now facing an unthinkable reality: life without her husband and two young children. The family was described as loving, joyful, and deeply connected.

A GoFundMe page launched to support Brooke paints a touching picture of the family. “Tommy was a devoted husband and father, a kind soul who worked hard and loved his family with his whole heart,” the fundraiser reads. “Lynnlee was full of life, joy, and curiosity. Little Tommy Jr. was just beginning his journey in the world, always smiling and full of love.”

Brooke, known for her kind heart and strong work ethic, is a longtime employee at a local restaurant. Friends and supporters describe her as compassionate and selfless. Now, they’re rallying behind her to provide support during the most painful time of her life.

The driver faces serious charges

Rocky Patterson, the driver who caused the crash, survived the collision and has since been arrested. He faces second-degree felony manslaughter charges. His bond has been set at $3 million.

The 74-year-old driver of the large vehicle Patterson attempted to pass also sustained injuries but survived.

Community steps up with support

The GoFundMe campaign, organized by Carmen Hall, has already raised more than 60% of its $150,000 goal in just 10 days. The funds will help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support for Brooke as she begins to navigate life without her family.

“In a single instant, Brooke lost everything,” the fundraiser says. “Now, she is facing the unimaginable, and she needs all of us to help her through this most painful time.”

This accident is more than a heartbreaking personal loss—it’s a reminder of how a single reckless decision can destroy lives. Passing in a no-passing zone, especially on a hill with limited visibility, is not just dangerous—it’s deadly.

The Moorehead family’s story has moved people across Texas and beyond, showing how communities can come together in times of great sorrow. But it also raises important questions about road safety and responsibility.

A call to drive responsibly

As Brooke Moorehead grieves the unimaginable loss of her husband and two children, many are asking: how can we prevent tragedies like this from happening again? The answer begins with each of us, behind the wheel, choosing safety over impatience.

For now, those who wish to help can donate to the Moorehead family’s GoFundMe or share their story to raise awareness about the dangers of reckless driving.

Let this heartbreaking moment serve as a powerful reminder to drive carefully—and to hold close the ones we love.