ROBSTOWN, TX (THECOUNT) – Joshua Galvan, 24, of Pharr, Texas, has been arrested in connection with a deadly crash that claimed the lives of Randy Rubio, 35, and his three children, ages 12, 5, and 4. The collision occurred on January 15 at the intersection of County Road 36 and County Road 77 in Robstown.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Galvan was driving a 2019 Ford Ranger westbound on County Road 36 when he failed to stop at a stop sign and struck a 2005 Buick Rendezvous traveling southbound on County Road 77. Rubio was driving the Buick with his three children after attending the local livestock show carnival. The force of the impact sent both vehicles off the roadway, resulting in the immediate deaths of Rubio and two of his children. The youngest child, age 4, succumbed to injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
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Galvan was initially taken to Christus Spohn Shoreline Hospital following the crash for treatment of injuries sustained during the collision. After his release, troopers obtained an arrest warrant charging him with three counts of manslaughter. He was booked into the Nueces County Jail on Thursday afternoon. DPS officials confirmed the investigation into the crash is ongoing, noting that any witnesses to the incident are urged to come forward.
Witnesses at the scene reported seeing the Ford Ranger fail to slow before entering the intersection, striking the Buick with considerable force. Local first responders worked quickly to provide emergency care for the victims. Emergency medical services pronounced the victims deceased at the scene or shortly after hospital arrival, highlighting the tragic nature of the collision. Authorities said the intersection has been the site of prior traffic incidents and emphasized that failure to obey stop signs continues to be a major safety concern in the area.
Family members and friends of Randy Rubio described the father as a devoted parent who had attended the livestock show with his children to celebrate local agricultural achievements. The community has since expressed shock and sorrow over the sudden loss. Local officials have called for increased awareness and caution at rural intersections to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Texas Department of Public Safety also confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation. Troopers are reviewing traffic camera footage, vehicle data, and witness statements to determine the precise circumstances that led to the fatal collision. DPS Sgt. Justin Ruiz emphasized that the agency is treating the case with the utmost seriousness and is coordinating with local law enforcement to ensure a complete investigation.
Galvan’s vehicle, a 2019 Ford Ranger, and the victims’ 2005 Buick Rendezvous have been impounded for forensic examination. Investigators plan to analyze vehicle speeds, brake application, and any potential contributing factors such as road conditions or visibility at the time of the crash. DPS has not released further details regarding whether drugs, alcohol, or distractions were factors, but those lines of inquiry remain standard procedure in serious vehicular fatalities.
Community leaders and school officials are also reaching out to support the extended Rubio family during this difficult time. Counseling services have been offered to friends, relatives, and children affected by the tragedy. Authorities have noted that crashes of this nature, involving young victims and families, have a profound impact on local residents.
Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety, Robstown Division, or submit tips to local law enforcement. The investigation remains active, and further charges could be considered depending on the outcomes of ongoing examinations.
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