THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a two-vehicle fatality crash that occurred on January 22, 2025, at approximately 5:33 a.m., on US 57, approximately 5 miles east of Batesville, mile marker 426 in Zavala County. Preliminary investigation revealed a 2019 white Peterbilt truck tractor semi-trailer was traveling west on US 57. A gray 2008 Dodge Caravan was traveling east on US 57. The Dodge traveled onto the wrong side of the roadway and collided head-on with the Peterbilt. The driver and passenger of the Peterbilt were not injured. The driver of the Dodge, Carmen Ruiz, 50, from Batesville, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The fatal crash remains under investigation.

By Jose G Landa 

Not even the cold weather was going to keep hundreds of local residents, public dignitaries, and EPISD students from holding and attending the 11th Annual Jesus “Chuy” Sanchez Memorial Cowboy Breakfast, which kicks off the Maverick County Junior Livestock Show and Sale. 

The community-friendly event was held at the Zan Mathies Show Barn at the Maverick County Lake on Tuesday, January 21st, and started a bit later due to the inclement weather we're currently experiencing.

That did not stop hundreds of local residents from attending and enjoying the community breakfast event, which is an atmospheric focal point where participants, residents, and volunteers gather to break bread and get ready for a week of MCJLS events.

The breakfast event has been taking place for more than a decade and is dedicated to Jesus “Chuy” Sanchez, former Maverick County Jr. Livestock Show Association President and volunteer, who for many years dedicated his leadership, talent, and skills to organizing and managing the MCJLS events and sales. 

His dedication and volunteerism benefited thousands of local youths who gained valuable educational experiences through their participation in the MCJLS program.