The Wharton County community is mourning the loss of John Muniz, 61, who died Thursday evening following a tragic train-versus-pedestrian incident near Business 59 and County Road 222.

According to the Wharton County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the area at approximately 8:18 p.m. on August 6 after receiving reports of a train-versus-pedestrian accident. Firefighters and EMS personnel also responded as emergency crews worked at the scene.

When deputies arrived, they discovered a deceased man who was later identified as John Muniz.

The news of his death has brought sorrow to those who knew him and to others throughout the community who are now learning of the heartbreaking circumstances. At 61 years old, John’s passing represents the loss of a life filled with experiences, relationships, memories, and connections that cannot simply be replaced.

Justice of the Peace T. Drapela responded to the scene and conducted the inquest, a standard procedure in unattended deaths to help determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the incident.

For John’s family and friends, however, the official investigation cannot ease the pain of losing someone they cared about. They are left facing the difficult reality that a familiar presence in their lives is suddenly gone.