Lufkin, TX (January 18, 2026) – A tragic two-vehicle crash in Lufkin on Saturday morning claimed the life of a young East Texas man and his dog, while also leaving a passenger seriously injured.
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m. on January 17 along College Dr near the entrance to Texas Bible College. According to the Lufkin Police Department, 26-year-old Demarcus Hadnot of Pollok was driving west on College Drive when his Kia was struck by a Mercedes driven by 65-year-old George Fidone of Lufkin.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene. Hadnot was pronounced dead as a result of the crash, and a dog riding in his vehicle also died at the scene. His passenger, 24-year-old Paige Turner, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Tyler for advanced care. Fidone reportedly suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Medics and fire crews worked to stabilize the injured and secure the area while investigators began piecing together the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities have not yet released further details on what may have led to the impact.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Demarcus Hadnot and mourn the loss of a beloved pet. Our thoughts are also with Paige Turner as she begins her recovery.
