It is with immense sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of 19-year-old Zack Rankin, a bright and beloved teenager from Colorado, who died tragically following a car crash in Lamb County, Texas.
The accident occurred on Sunday evening, at approximately 9:30 p.m., near the intersection of County Road 242 and U.S. Highway 385. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Zack was behind the wheel when a pickup truck entered the intersection and struck his vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly on the scene and transported Zack to University Medical Center in Lubbock. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
The sudden and violent nature of the accident has left Zack’s family, friends, and community reeling from an unimaginable loss. Zack was more than a statistic in a tragic accident—he was a son, a brother, a friend, and a young man filled with promise.
Known for his friendly smile, adventurous spirit, and a heart full of kindness, Zack touched the lives of many during his short time on Earth. Whether it was through school, sports, or friendships, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He had recently begun mapping out plans for his future, full of ambition and dreams that were tragically cut short. Those closest to him describe him as a thoughtful and driven young man who had an innate ability to brighten any room he entered. Zack had a love for the outdoors, a curiosity about the world, and a special talent for making others feel included and supported.
Also in the vehicle at the time of the crash was 20-year-old Hailey Sprangler, a close friend of Zack’s. She suffered serious injuries and was also transported to the hospital, where she is currently listed in stable condition. Her road to recovery will be long, and she remains in the thoughts and prayers of many who are devastated by this incident.
Authorities confirmed that neither Zack nor Hailey were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, a heartbreaking detail that has sparked renewed conversations about the importance of seatbelt use among young drivers and passengers. The driver of the pickup truck, who reportedly ran the intersection and caused the collision, sustained only minor injuries.
The tragic and preventable nature of the crash has left the Rankin family and community grappling not only with grief but with a sense of injustice and urgency. In the midst of their sorrow, Zack’s loved ones hope to raise awareness about safe driving practices, including seatbelt use and the need for vigilance on the road. They are also calling for accountability and a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
As family, friends, and community members gather to mourn the loss of a young life taken far too soon, they remember Zack as someone who lived with joy, compassion, and integrity. Though his journey ended abruptly, the love he shared and the impact he made will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
