SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Authorities have identified the woman killed in a tragic early-morning crash on Saturday, August 9, as 34-year-old Kaylinn Churchill of Fort Worth. The collision, which also left several others injured, has resulted in serious criminal charges against the driver involved.

According to city officials, David Rivera, 60, has been charged with intoxication manslaughter and six counts of intoxication assault after allegedly driving while impaired and striking a golf cart carrying six people. Churchill, a passenger in the golf cart, was rushed to the hospital but later died from her injuries.

The crash occurred around 2:15 a.m. at the intersection of Padre Boulevard and Morningside Street. Police say Rivera was behind the wheel of a Chevrolet truck when it collided with the golf cart, which is commonly used by both locals and tourists in the popular beach destination. Emergency crews transported all six occupants of the cart to a nearby hospital. While the others were treated and later discharged, Churchill tragically did not survive. Rivera was also briefly hospitalized before being taken into custody.

Officials emphasized the dangers of impaired driving and the vulnerability of golf cart passengers in collisions with larger vehicles. “This was a preventable tragedy,” authorities said, stressing the need for responsible driving, especially in recreational areas like South Padre Island where alcohol use and heavy traffic often mix.

Rivera’s bond was set at $180,000. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to review evidence and toxicology results.

The South Padre Island community is mourning Churchill’s loss while authorities warn that the incident underscores the devastating consequences of driving under the influence.