Three Crockett Residents Die In Houston County Boating Accident

By Greg Ritchie

Messenger Reporter

HOUSTON COUNTY — The bodies of three Crockett residents were recovered Monday morning after a fishing boat overturned on a private lake in Houston County Sunday night.

The Houston County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) received a 911 call at approximately 8:06 p.m. Sunday regarding the boating accident. Four people were reportedly fishing from the boat when it overturned, throwing all four occupants into the water.

One of the occupants, identified as Juan Hernandez of Crockett, was able to swim safely to shore. The other three individuals were reported missing.

Deputies and investigators with the HCSO began coordinating search efforts. The Grapeland Fire Department, Search and Rescue personnel, Texas Game Wardens and the Huntsville Fire Department Dive Team assisted in the search.

The first missing individual was located at approximately 7:45 a.m. Monday and identified as Sergio Quintero of Crockett. A short time later, a second individual, identified as Alexander Aldaco of Crockett, was located.

The final missing individual, identified as Junior Perez of Crockett, was located at approximately 9:15 a.m.

Justice of the Peace Mike McCreight was called to the scene and pronounced all three individuals deceased. McCreight ruled the deaths accidental.

All four people involved in the incident were from Crockett.

HCSO said the incident appears to have been a tragic boating accident and that no foul play is suspected. The Texas Game Wardens are handling the investigation.

HCSO extended its condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of Quintero, Aldaco and Perez. The office also thanked the Grapeland Fire Department, Search and Rescue personnel, Huntsville Fire Department Dive Team, Texas Game Wardens and everyone else who assisted with the search and recovery efforts.

Greg Ritchie can be reached at [email protected]