CALLAHAN COUNTY, TEXAS — A tragic early morning all-terrain vehicle accident claimed the lives of two West Texas men Friday in Callahan County, according to information released by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Authorities identified the victims as Hunter Blake Patterson, 31, of Abilene, and Brett Cole Underwood, 29, of Clyde. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 1 a.m. along State Highway 36, just over two miles south of Potosi near County Road 228.
According to the preliminary DPS investigation, Patterson and Underwood were traveling in a Polaris Ranger side-by-side ATV when they exited a field located on the west side of the highway and entered the southbound lanes of State Highway 36. Patterson was reportedly driving the ATV at the time of the collision.
DPS stated that Alfonso Martinez, 42, of Royse City, was also traveling southbound in a 2020 Toyota Corolla when his vehicle collided with the rear of the ATV. The impact sent the side-by-side vehicle off the west side of the roadway, where it overturned violently.
Authorities said neither Patterson nor Underwood was wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Both men were ejected from the ATV during the rollover. Following the crash, the Polaris Ranger caught fire, creating a devastating scene for first responders arriving at the location.
Emergency personnel responded quickly to the accident, but both Patterson and Underwood sustained fatal injuries. Officials have not yet released additional details regarding the extent of injuries or whether either victim died at the scene or later as a result of the crash.
The driver of the Toyota Corolla, Alfonso Martinez, has not been reported as seriously injured. Authorities have not indicated that any charges have been filed, and the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
News of the tragedy has deeply affected residents across Abilene, Clyde, and surrounding communities, where friends and family members are mourning the sudden loss of two young men whose lives ended far too soon.
Those who knew Hunter Blake Patterson remember him as hardworking, loyal, and someone who enjoyed spending time outdoors with friends and loved ones. Family members and friends described him as someone who valued community, friendship, and family above all else.
Brett Cole Underwood is also being remembered for his caring personality, strong friendships, and the positive impact he had on the people around him. Tributes shared online following the accident reflect the heartbreak being felt throughout the area as loved ones struggle to process the devastating news.
The fatal crash also serves as a somber reminder about roadway safety involving all-terrain vehicles and the dangers associated with operating side-by-side vehicles on public highways, particularly during nighttime hours. Officials continue to encourage ATV riders to use proper safety restraints and remain cautious when entering or crossing roadways.
As the investigation continues, the Callahan County community has rallied around the families of both victims, offering prayers, condolences, and support during this difficult time. Friends and loved ones have begun sharing memories and messages honoring the lives of Hunter Patterson and Brett Underwood, remembering not the tragedy itself but the lives they lived and the people they were.
Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be announced by the families in the coming days.
Though their lives were tragically cut short, Hunter Blake Patterson and Brett Cole Underwood will be remembered by many for their friendships, their presence in the community, and the memories they leave behind in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
