Michael Menjares Death, Obituary: One Teen Dead, Four Injured in Abilene SUV Crash

ABILENE, Texas — A 17-year-old teen was killed early Sunday morning in a single-vehicle rollover crash, according to Abilene police.

Authorities said first responders were called to the 6500 block of West Lake Road just before 1 a.m. following reports of a serious crash. When officers arrived, they located a Toyota RAV4 that had been involved in a collision and rollover.

Police identified the victim as Michael Menjares, 17, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to a press release from the Abilene Police Department, the vehicle was occupied by five people at the time of the crash. Four other occupants were transported to a local hospital with injuries.

Investigators say the SUV was traveling southbound on West Lake Road when it began to swerve to the right, entered a grass drainage ditch, and then rolled.

Authorities stated that, at this time, they do not believe alcohol played a role in the crash. However, the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation as officials continue to review evidence and gather witness statements.

The crash caused an emergency response in the early morning hours as crews worked to assist the injured and secure the scene. The roadway was temporarily impacted while investigators documented the area.

Police have not released additional details about the condition of the other passengers.

The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing.