IMPERIAL, TX. (THECOUNT) — Jaden and Jackie Jurado, 18-year-old twins, and their 16-year-old sister Nautica Jurado lost their lives in a devastating head-on crash Wednesday on Farm to Market Road 1053 in Imperial. The tragic accident also claimed the life of Gary Liles, 48, of Brownfield, Texas.

Crash Details:

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According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the crash occurred when a GMC Sierra driven by Liles collided head-on with a Jeep carrying the three siblings. The impact caused the Jeep to catch fire, killing all three family members inside. Liles was transported to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation.

Victims Identified:

While DPS has not officially released the names of the siblings, the Ector County Sheriff’s Office shared a GoFundMe campaign identifying them as Jaden, Jackie, and Nautica Jurado. The three were students at Buena Vista Independent School District and children of Ector County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Lt. Heather Perkins, a veteran officer with 23 years of service.

Sheriff Mike Griffis confirmed the heartbreaking news and revealed that Lt. Perkins was among the first responders at the crash scene.

Community in Mourning:

The tragic loss has sent shockwaves through the community. Buena Vista ISD issued a statement expressing profound grief:

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Jaden, Jackie, and Nautica Jurado. These remarkable students touched the lives of everyone in our district with their kindness, energy, and dedication. We extend our deepest sympathies to their family and all who knew them.”

The GoFundMe campaign, created to support Lt. Perkins and her family, described the siblings as bright, loving, and deeply cherished by those who knew them.

A Mother’s Heartbreak:

Lt. Heather Perkins, who has served with the Ector County Sheriff’s Office for over two decades, is described by colleagues as a dedicated officer and loving mother. Sheriff Griffis shared his condolences:

“This is an unimaginable tragedy for Heather and her family. Heather is a valued member of our team and community, and we will stand by her during this incredibly difficult time.”

Support for the Family:

The GoFundMe campaign aims to assist with funeral expenses and provide support to Lt. Perkins as she navigates this loss. The community has rallied to offer condolences and financial assistance, with hundreds of donations pouring in within hours.

Via GoFundMe:

ECTOR COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of HEATHER PERKINS.

At approximately 7:20pm on November 20, 18 year old twin boys Jaden and Jackie and their sister 16 year old Nautica were involved in a head on crash in Crane County, Texas on FM 1053 south of Highway 329. All three of these kids died upon impact. The driver of the other vehicle died after being transported to MCH Odessa. These 3 kids are the children of Patrol Lt Heather Perkins. She has worked for ECSO for 23 years and rose through the ranks after starting in the jail. Her Dad Jackie, retired from ECSO in 2015 after 37 years of service. These are Good Folks, a precious family. We humbly ask for prayers and assistance financially to help pay for funeral services and unforeseen expenses that we all know will follow. We absolutely Thank You all !!

Investigation Ongoing:

The Texas DPS continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash, including whether weather, road conditions, or other factors contributed to the collision. Officials have not disclosed additional details about the events leading to the accident.

Remembering the Jurado Siblings:

Friends, classmates, and teachers remember Jaden, Jackie, and Nautica as vibrant, talented individuals with promising futures.

Jaden Jurado: Known for his leadership on the school’s athletic teams, Jaden was a role model to his peers and planned to pursue a career in engineering.

Jackie Jurado: Jackie excelled in academics and the arts, earning accolades for her creative talents.

Nautica Jurado: The youngest sibling, Nautica, was admired for her compassion and enthusiasm, brightening every room she entered.

A Community United in Grief:

This tragedy underscores the close-knit nature of the Imperial community, where residents have come together to support Lt. Perkins and honor the memories of the Jurado siblings.

As the investigation continues, the family and community face an arduous journey of healing, bolstered by the outpouring of love and support from friends, neighbors, and strangers alike.

Imperial is a census-designated place in Pecos County, Texas, United States. The population was 294 at the 2020 census

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