Sara Nix Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Lafayette County are investigating a tragic traffic incident that claimed the lives of two people, including a child, on Thursday afternoon along Arkansas Highway 160 near the small community of Gin. The Arkansas State Police confirmed that the crash occurred shortly after 3:30 p.m. on October 16, 2025, and involved two vehicles traveling in opposite directions.
According to the preliminary report released by the state police, heavy smoke from a nearby fire had drifted across the roadway, creating poor visibility conditions for drivers in the area. Investigators say a 2007 Freightliner truck traveling eastbound collided with a westbound 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, leading to a devastating outcome.
The driver of the Tahoe was identified as 28-year-old Sara Nix of Bradley, who was traveling with a young passenger at the time of the crash. Sadly, both Nix and the child lost their lives at the scene despite immediate emergency response efforts. Authorities reported that their remains were transported to Smith Funeral Home in Stamps for further arrangements. The driver of the Freightliner did not sustain any injuries in the crash, and no additional vehicles were involved.
Trooper First Class Justin Cherry, who led the initial investigation, noted that weather conditions were otherwise clear that afternoon. However, he described the roadway as “smoky” due to a fire burning nearby, which significantly reduced visibility for motorists along that stretch of the highway. Investigators are looking into whether the drifting smoke may have directly contributed to the collision or if other factors played a role.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies—including the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, local firefighters, and Arkansas State Police—arrived on scene to secure the area and assist with traffic control. For several hours, Highway 160 remained closed between Bradley and Gin as crews cleared debris, assessed the scene, and ensured the safety of other drivers. Traffic was later redirected to alternate routes until conditions improved.
The Arkansas State Police emphasized that the crash remains under active investigation, with officials working to determine the precise cause and sequence of events. While preliminary findings point to visibility issues as a likely contributing factor, investigators have not yet released a final conclusion. Troopers are also examining whether smoke warnings or hazard advisories had been issued in the area prior to the crash.
Local residents described the scene as heartbreaking and said smoke from the fire had been noticeable throughout the afternoon. Some motorists who were driving nearby told authorities that visibility dropped quickly as they entered the smoky stretch of Highway 160, leaving them with little time to react.
Community members in Bradley and Gin have expressed deep sympathy for the families affected by the tragedy. Friends of Sara Nix remembered her as a kind and caring person who was devoted to her family and community. The loss of both her and the young passenger has left a profound emotional impact on the small towns surrounding Lafayette County, where neighbors have begun organizing efforts to support the grieving family.
The Arkansas State Police have urged drivers to remain extra cautious when driving near fires, especially during the dry season when smoke can unexpectedly drift across roadways. Officials remind the public that even when skies appear clear, nearby brush or grass fires can quickly reduce visibility and create dangerous driving conditions.
As of Friday, investigators continued to gather evidence and review witness statements to ensure a full and transparent understanding of what led to the collision. Authorities have confirmed that next of kin have been notified and that updates will be provided once the investigation concludes.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Arkansas State Police. Even small details, they say, could help clarify the events that unfolded on that smoky afternoon along Highway 160.