Silsbee Mourns Chamber Director Melissa Smart, One of Four Killed in Tragic Utility Vehicle Crash

SILSBEE, TX — July 26, 2025 — The tight-knit community of Silsbee is grieving the sudden loss of Melissa Smart, the Executive Director of the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce, who was tragically killed alongside three family members in a late-night utility vehicle (UTV) collision in Hardin County on Friday.

Melissa, 33, was among four victims from the Smart family who died when their UTV was struck by a southbound commercial truck near FM 92 just after 11:30 p.m. The other victims included Otis Smart, 46; Triston Smart, 26; and Terry Smart, 63. A fifth family member, Kali Smart, 30, remains hospitalized in critical condition at Memorial Hermann.

A Community Leader Taken Too Soon

As Executive Director, Melissa Smart was widely recognized for her dedication to supporting local businesses and fostering community growth. Under her leadership, the Chamber launched numerous initiatives aimed at boosting the economy and strengthening civic engagement across Hardin County.

“Melissa was the heart and soul of our chamber,” said a spokesperson for the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Her passion, energy, and unwavering commitment touched every corner of this community. Her loss is deeply felt by all.”

Colleagues remember Melissa as a visionary leader whose enthusiasm and kindness inspired everyone she worked with. “She had a rare ability to bring people together and make things happen,” said a fellow chamber member. “Her smile and spirit will be missed.”

Crash Details and Investigation Underway

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the family’s utility vehicle entered FM 92 from Jim Burns Road when it was struck by a commercial truck driven by 34-year-old Arthur Jones of Houston. Jones sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth Hospital.

Adding to the chaos, a secondary accident occurred at the scene when a Chevrolet Malibu driven by 44-year-old Kristy Biggs of Spurger collided with a stationary Hardin County patrol vehicle. Biggs was also hospitalized with minor injuries. The responding deputy was unharmed.

FM 92 remained closed for several hours overnight as investigators conducted a multi-casualty crash investigation.

Community Grieves and Honors the Smart Family

The Smart family is well known in Kountze and Silsbee, with deep roots and longstanding community involvement. Tributes have poured in from residents, local officials, and business owners expressing shock and sorrow.

A candlelight vigil is being planned to honor the family’s memory, and details on memorial services are expected soon. In respect for Melissa Smart, the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce has announced it will remain closed this week.

“Melissa didn’t just lead this chamber — she was its soul,” one colleague reflected. “To lose her and her family so suddenly is a heartbreak beyond words.”

Legacy of Dedication and Service

Melissa Smart’s impact on Silsbee will endure far beyond this tragedy. Her efforts helped shape a more vibrant, connected community, and her spirit lives on in those she inspired.

As Silsbee comes together in grief, it also renews its commitment to the values Melissa championed — community, compassion, and progress.