The Galveston community is mourning the tragic loss of Matthew Hayes, a 41-year-old man who died following a devastating hit-and-run crash on the evening of April 19, 2026. The sudden and violent incident has left family, friends, and loved ones heartbroken as they search for answers in the wake of the tragedy.
According to the Galveston Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 6:44 p.m. to an auto-pedestrian crash in an alley between the 2200 block of Avenues J and K. Authorities confirmed that the suspect vehicle fled the scene immediately after striking Hayes, prompting a swift response from emergency crews.
When officers arrived, Hayes was found suffering from critical injuries. First responders began lifesaving efforts at the scene before he was transported by EMS to the UTMB Emergency Department. Despite the urgent medical care provided, Hayes later succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind a grieving community shaken by the loss.
Witnesses told investigators that Hayes was struck by a truck traveling recklessly eastbound through the alley. Additional accounts indicated the same vehicle had earlier hit the corner of a building in the 1000 block of 23rd Street before continuing on and ultimately striking the victim. Authorities described the impact as severe, with the scene unfolding rapidly.
Police quickly broadcast a description of the suspect vehicle, identified as a newer model Ram pickup truck. Shortly after, officers located a vehicle matching that description at the Galveston Ferry landing. A 17-year-old, Logan Smith of Missouri City, was taken into custody and booked into the Galveston County Jail.
Smith has been charged with collision involving death and driving while intoxicated (DWI) and is being held on a $22,500 bond as the investigation continues. As authorities work to piece together the final moments leading up to the crash, the Galveston community continues to grieve, remembering Matthew Hayes and the life that was tragically cut short.