A tragic boating accident at Hubbard Creek Reservoir in Stephens County, Texas, claimed the life of 67-year-old Roger Cross on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities report that the incident occurred shortly before 4:30 p.m. in a shallow channel near Peeler’s Pier, north of Highway 180 along the Stephens-Shackelford county line. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
The midsized boat, carrying two occupants, struck a submerged tree stump while navigating the shallow waters, causing it to flip and capsize suddenly. Low water levels at the reservoir, which was only 43.5 percent full at the time, contributed to the exposure of underwater hazards that are typically submerged. Officials have confirmed that neither wind nor weather played a role in the accident, and alcohol was not a factor.
Roger Cross, the passenger, entered the water following the capsizing and tragically drowned despite rescue efforts. The boat operator, 38-year-old James Cozart, sustained unspecified injuries but managed to swim to safety. Cozart heroically pulled Cross to the shore and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived, though those attempts were ultimately unsuccessful.
First responders, including Stephens County Game Warden Clifton Westbrook, quickly arrived at the scene after Cozart reached his vehicle to call dispatch. The boat remains submerged, with recovery operations planned to aid the investigation. Authorities noted the dangers posed by fluctuating water levels in the reservoir, which can create unexpected obstacles for boaters.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department continues to examine the exact cause of the crash, focusing on navigational hazards in low-water conditions. No additional individuals were involved, and the sheriff’s office has ruled out impairment as a contributing element. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with recreational boating in variable reservoir environments.
Roger Cross lived a life marked by quiet dedication and meaningful connections within his community. Though specific details of his personal journey remain private in the immediate aftermath, his passing leaves a void felt by those who knew him. He is remembered as an individual who embraced the simple joys of life on the water, leaving behind a legacy of a life well lived amid the natural beauty of Texas landscapes.