A small Texas community is grappling with profound grief after a teenage brother and sister were killed when their pickup truck was struck by a train and burst into flames near Clyde over the weekend, authorities said.
The victims were identified as Brileigh Janae Dailey, 19, and her younger brother, Kyler Dailey, 16—both students with deep ties to Clyde Consolidated Independent School District. The fatal crash occurred around 2:45 p.m. Sunday at a railroad crossing near County Road 243 and Farm-to-Market Road 18, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Investigators said a Ford F-150 was exiting a private driveway and attempting to cross the railroad tracks when it failed to yield to an oncoming train. The collision caused the truck to become fully engulfed in flames. Kyler was driving, and Brileigh was a passenger, DPS confirmed. Both died at the scene.
For school officials, the news was devastating. “All I could think was, ‘Please let this not be one of our kids,’” Clyde CISD Superintendent Bryan Allen told CBS affiliate KEYE. He rushed to the crash site shortly after learning of the incident, joining staff members and students who had already gathered in shock. “It’s heartbreaking when you pull up on that scene,” Allen said. “It’s the last thing you ever want to hear or see.”
Brileigh graduated from Clyde High School last year, while Kyler was a junior. Kyler was active in football and track, and Brileigh had been a cheerleader and softball player—roles that made them familiar, beloved faces across campus. The district has since mobilized counselors and support staff to help students and teachers process the loss.
The tragedy has also sparked an outpouring of community support. A GoFundMe launched for the Dailey family surpassed $70,000 within days, far exceeding its original goal. “They were deeply loved and will always be remembered for the joy, kindness, and light they brought to those around them,” the organizer wrote.
Rail safety experts note that rural crossings—especially those near private driveways—can pose heightened risks due to limited visibility and driver familiarity. DPS said the investigation remains ongoing and declined further comment beyond confirming initial findings.
As Clyde mourns, vigils and messages of remembrance continue to circulate, reflecting a town united in sorrow. “They were vibrant young lives with bright futures,” the fundraiser noted—a sentiment echoed throughout the community as it begins the long process of healing.
