A beloved Collinsville city employee was killed Monday morning in a two-vehicle accident just west of the city, according to officials.
The driver of the other vehicle was flown to a Denton hospital in critical condition.
Lydia Barnes, a 28-yearvold Gainesville resident, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Barnes worked at Collinsville City Hall as a water and utilities clerk.
“The nature of emergency response in small towns dictates that we sometimes know the accident victim,” Collinsville Fire Chief Damon Stewart said. “They could be a family member, a friend or— in this case— a coworker. It is incredibly hard.”
The call went out at 7:04 a.m. Monday in response to a head-on collision near the 8000 block of FM 902 west of Collinsville.
According to Stewart, both drivers required extrication— a process that took almost an hour due to the extensive damage to both vehicles.
Texas DPS said Tuesday that it appears the driver of the other vehicle veered into Barnes’ lane, hitting her head on.
City Hall was closed Monday in the wake of the tragedy and that evening’s regularly scheduled city council meeting was postponed.
“It is with profound sadness that we are processing the unexpected loss this morning of a beloved city employee,” the city posted to Facebook. “We appreciate your understanding. Your prayers for the family are also appreciated.”
Funeral services for Lydia Elaine Barnes are pending with Waldo Funeral Home in Sherman. According to Collinsville City Administrator Danielle Talley, a funeral is tentatively for 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23 at the funeral home.
Check the funeral home’s website for updates.
