LUFKIN, Texas – A beloved East Texas educator has been identified as the victim of a deadly crash that occurred Monday afternoon in downtown Lufkin. Authorities confirmed that 40-year-old Morgan Wright of Pollok lost her life after a stolen truck, driven by a teenage suspect, slammed into her vehicle at the intersection of Third and Frank Streets.
The collision took place around 1 p.m. on September 29, following a police pursuit that began when Lufkin officers attempted to stop a stolen truck near the Lufkin mall. According to police, the vehicle was being driven by a 16-year-old boy who refused to stop and instead sped northward into the downtown area. The chase ended in tragedy when the stolen truck crashed into Wright’s Ford Explorer, causing devastating damage.
Emergency crews quickly responded, and Wright was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite efforts by medical staff, she later died from her injuries. The teenage driver was also hospitalized but has since been released. Lufkin Police confirmed that criminal charges against the juvenile are pending, though details about the exact offenses have not yet been released.
Wright’s death has sent shockwaves through the education community. She worked as a speech pathologist at Lufkin ISD, where colleagues remembered her as a compassionate and dedicated professional committed to helping children succeed. She was also the wife of Wells ISD Superintendent Friday Wright. Leverett’s Chapel ISD released a statement offering condolences, describing her as a vital part of the East Texas school community.
Both Lufkin ISD and Wells ISD have expressed deep sadness at the loss, with counseling resources being made available to students and staff affected by the tragedy. “Morgan touched the lives of so many through her work with students,” one colleague shared. “Her kindness, patience, and dedication will never be forgotten.”
The crash has sparked broader concern about police pursuits involving stolen vehicles and underage drivers. Law enforcement officials stressed that the incident underscores the dangers posed when juveniles operate stolen cars and attempt to evade authorities. As the investigation continues, the Wright family and the Lufkin community are left to grieve the sudden loss of a wife, mother, and educator whose impact will be remembered for years to come.