Neighbors speak out after teen killed in donut stunt crash

ADKINS, Texas – Neighbors are speaking out after a teen was killed in a donut stunt crash in East Bexar County.

Henry Casas Jr., 14, died after passing away thrown from a truck driven by a 17-year-old who was performing donuts in his front yard and crashed.

Police said six boys were injured at the scene and Casas was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 17 year old was charged with manslaughter and injury to a child.

Days after the accident, local parents and Casas’ parents reflected on the incident. During a phone conversation with Casas’ mother, she described who he was before the crash. She said he was a fun, loving boy who enjoyed video games and hanging out with his sisters.

“I can’t sit here and say that my kids or I personally haven’t done donuts on my own property,” said neighbor Daphne Dodd.

“It’s heartbreaking when you have kids who grew up with these kids. It’s heartbreaking to know that you have children of your own who have been doing their own things on the property, you know, while you’re standing there having told them not to do something.

Another neighbor said that while donut carrying is typical for some people in the area, this outcome was far from common.

“No, it’s weird; this is the first time something like this has happened,” said the woman, who wished to remain anonymous. “I feel sorry for the parents, poor parents.”

Dodd said she and other neighbors are working to make sure Casas’ life is remembered.

“Our kids have all grown up together since elementary school,” Dodd said. “It is a terrible tragedy, and all we can do and say now is keep your families and children close to you.”

KSAT contacted the East Central Independent School District, where Casas was a student, to ask if the district has a program focused on student driving safety.

The East Central ISD responded with the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened to share that 14-year-old East Central High School student Henry Casas Jr. tragically passed away last weekend. Henry was a beloved student known for his love of football and positive attitude.

This loss underlines the importance of safe driving, a message that our Student Union promotes every year in our Drive Safely campaign. Additional counseling services are available on campus for students who need support. Our thoughts are with Henry’s family, friends and all who knew him.”