Mark Butler dies in fatal Navasota head-on crash
Fatal Navasota head-on crash death of Mark Butler – Obituary
Beloved Navasota Police Sergeant Mark Butler lost his life in a tragic head-on collision on Highway 6 caused by a wrong-way driver.
The incident occurred when a woman, whose identity remains unknown, drove a Jeep into the northbound lanes of Highway 6 while traveling southbound. The collision took place after the woman led police on a chase originating in College Station, where she was suspected of attempting to cash a fraudulent check. College Station Police Department (CSPD) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) terminated the pursuit moments before the crash due to safety concerns.
Sgt. Butler was struck by the oncoming vehicle and was rushed to St. Joseph Hospital in Grimes County, where he later passed away. The wrong-way driver, who was carrying a fake ID, died at the scene. Authorities are using her fingerprints to determine her identity.
Sgt. Butler graduated from the police academy in June 2021 following six years of service in the U.S. Army. He had recently been promoted to sergeant in October 2024. Navasota Police Chief Mike Mize expressed his deep sorrow, calling Butler’s death a profound loss for the community and highlighting his unwavering dedication to his team and his compassionate leadership.
The fraudulent check investigation is being handled by CSPD, while the Texas Highway Patrol is focusing on the crash investigation. Butler’s memory will be cherished by his colleagues and the Navasota community.
