Senate Bill 2688 designates Highway 281 as McElroy Memorial Highway after tragic accident

In a poignant gathering at the Texas Senate Committee on Transportation, emotions ran high as lawmakers and community members came together to honor the memory of the McElroy family. The meeting, held on May 7, 2025, focused on Senate Bill 2688, which proposes to designate a portion of US Highway 281 in Blanco and Burnet counties as the McElroy Memorial Highway. This initiative aims to commemorate the lives lost in a tragic accident that occurred on Thanksgiving Day in 2023.

Senator Hancock opened the session with a heartfelt tribute to Zach, Judson, and Lindsey McElroy, who were killed when a drunk driver collided head-on with their vehicle. Lauren McElroy, the sole survivor of the crash, bravely shared her story with the committee, despite the recent loss of her nephew. Her testimony painted a vivid picture of the family’s vibrant life and the profound impact their absence has left on the community.

Lauren described her husband, Zach, as a beloved figure in Fort Worth, known for his kindness and ability to connect with everyone he met. Their son Judson was remembered for his infectious smile and empathy, while daughter Lindsey was celebrated for her spirited personality and fierce loyalty to her friends and family. The McElroy family was not just a unit; they were a cornerstone of their community, and their loss has resonated deeply among friends and neighbors.

As Lauren recounted the harrowing details of the accident, she expressed her hope that the renaming of the highway would serve as a lasting reminder of the lives lost and the importance of road safety. She shared that improvements to Highway 281 were already underway, spurred by the tragedy, and emphasized the need for continued efforts to enhance safety on Texas roads.

The committee listened intently as Lauren articulated her desire for the memorial highway to symbolize not only remembrance but also a call to action for safer driving practices. “Every person in a vehicle on Texas highways is someone's entire world,” she stated, urging all drivers to recognize the weight of their responsibility behind the wheel.

The meeting concluded with a sense of unity and purpose, as lawmakers and community members alike reflected on the importance of honoring the McElroy family while advocating for safer roads. The proposed McElroy Memorial Highway stands as a testament to their legacy, ensuring that their memory will continue to inspire change and promote safety for all who travel Texas highways.