Kirbyville Man Killed in Orange County Crash Involving Horse; DPS Seeks Information

⚠️ Graphic Images Warning ⚠️

The Texas Department of Public Safety is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the owner of a horse involved in a fatal crash that claimed the life of a Jasper County man early Friday morning.

According to authorities, the crash occurred on Friday, December 19, 2025, at approximately 3:30 a.m. on State Highway 62 near FM 2802, just north of Mauriceville.

Investigators say John Thomas Loyd, 52, of Kirbyville, was traveling southbound on SH 62 when the vehicle he was driving struck a white-colored horse that was on the roadway. The horse’s mane was braided, a detail authorities believe may help identify its owner.

Mr. Loyd was pronounced deceased as a result of injuries sustained in the collision.

Law enforcement officials are actively working to determine how the horse came to be on the highway and are urging anyone with information about the animal or its owner to come forward.

The photographs released in connection with this incident have been slightly modified due to their graphic nature.

The investigation is being handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Anyone with information regarding the owner of the horse is asked to contact:

• Texas DPS at (936) 699-7340

• Orange County Sheriff’s Office at (409) 883-2612

• Jasper County Sheriff’s Office at (409) 384-5417

Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard said authorities appreciate the public’s assistance as they work to complete this investigation.