Fort Worth CEO Zach Muckleroy and his 2 children killed in car crash on Thanksgiving journey, wife in critical condition
Andrew Walker
Updated on March 27, 2026
AUSTIN, TEXAS: In a heartbreaking incident, Zach Muckleroy, the CEO of Muckleroy and Falls Construction Company, along with his two children, 12-year-old Judson and 9-year-old Lindsey, lost their lives in a devastating car crash while en route to visit family for Thanksgiving in Texas.
The fatal three-car collision occurred on Wednesday, November 22, along Highway 281, approximately 50 miles west of Austin, leaving Zach's wife, the sole survivor in critical condition.
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Who was Zach Muckleroy?
Zach, a TCU graduate with a degree in Accounting and Finance, played football for the Horned Frogs in 1998. He was on a journey with his wife and two children to visit family for Thanksgiving in Texas.
His wife, Lauren Muckleroy, survived the crash but is in critical condition and was airlifted to an Austin hospital.
The family was struck by an unimaginable tragedy, with a fourth victim also losing their life in the accident, although their identity has not yet been disclosed.
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The construction company, in a heartfelt Facebook post, expressed deep sorrow over the sudden loss, highlighting Zach's charismatic presence and significant contributions to the Fort Worth community.
Zach took over as CEO of the family business three years ago.
“Zach had a charisma about him and the uncanny ability to light up any room he walked into,” the company penned on Facebook. “He had a charitable heart that made lasting impacts on the Fort Worth Community. He treasured his family and was a proud alumni of TCU.”
Community mourns Muckleroy family's loss
A vigil held at the University Christian Church in Fort Worth drew hundreds in remembrance of the Muckleroy family. Lauren, who has undergone multiple surgeries, is aware of the devastating loss, as shared by the family minister, Russ Peterman.
“She’s aware that she lost her family. You can only imagine how hard that must be,” said the family minister. “Zach was not only a member of the congregation but a friend as well. I love that family. Those kids are amazing. Lauren is a fighter."
Former Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price, a close friend of Muckleroy’s parents, mourned, “It’s unbelievable. The Muckleroys are just pillars of our community and great Christian folks, great family folks, good business people,” WFAA reports.
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