4 killed in Chambers County crash on FM 563, after car hits tree, DPS Says

CHAMBERS COUNTY, Texas - Four people were killed in a single-vehicle crash on Friday evening in Chambers County, according to Texas DPS officials.

Chambers County crash: "Multiple fatalities" reported following crash near FM 563, Bay Lane area

What we know:

The crash occurred around 7:01 p.m. on Farm-to-Market Road 563, just south of Interstate 10, the Texas Department of Public Safety said. Investigators determined a 2005 Chrysler 300 was traveling north when the driver failed to maintain a single lane, left the roadway and struck a tree.

In a post, officials said to expect road closures near FM 563 and Bay Lane area until around midnight on Friday night, due to a crash having "multiple fatalities."

The driver, identified as 37-year-old Kara Beagle of Liberty, was pronounced dead at the scene, along with three passengers: 19-year-old Jayshawn Godfrey of Houston, a female minor and a male minor, DPS said.

Earlier Friday night, the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office reported "multiple fatalities" in a crash near the FM 563 and Bay Lane area and warned of road closures lasting several hours. Sheriff Brian Hawthorne said at the time it appeared none of the victims or the registered vehicle were from Chambers County.

What's next:

Authorities have not released additional details about the minors. DPS is leading the ongoing investigation.

What they're saying:

"We ask that you please pray for the family and friends of the victims of this tragic crash," Hawthorne said. 

*This story has been updated on April 12, 2026, after Texas DPS provided more details*