Bullard man killed in Panola County crash; community rallies through online fundraiser

Published 10:00 am Wednesday, April 9, 2025

A Bullard man was killed in a car crash over the weekend.

Hunter Hopson, 30, was killed in a two-vehicle crash just after 4 p.m. Saturday when the driver of another vehicle lost control on Farm-to-Market 123 in Panola County, according to a Texas Department of Public Safety crash report.

Hopson was driving east when the other car, which was traveling west, drove on the wrong side of the road and hit Hopson’s car.

The other driver and their two passengers were taken to a local hospital for treatment of injuries.

No further information is available about the crash.

Hopson had a wife, Aubree, and two children, Ryker, who is in the first grade and baby Ryynlee. An online fundraiser has been set up to support the family. With over 160 donations, over $21,000 has been raised of a $10,000 goal. Donations can be made at https://tinyurl.com/supporthuntersfamily .

Brittany Norman, organizer of the GoFundMe, said Hopson’s death has brought a deep sadness to his family and friends.

“While we all can’t make sense of God’s plan, I humbly ask that we rally around his wife, Aubree, and their children … If you can’t give anything, prayers are appreciated, but if you can help financially all proceeds will go to the family,” the fundraiser description states. “Please share and continue to pray for the Hopson family.”

Hopson was a passionate racer involved in the local racing community.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday at Bullard Methodist Church, 204 Rather St. in Bullard. The service will be followed by a celebration of Hopson’s life at 1 p.m. at the Simpson Family Farm, 13530 FM 346 W. in Flint. All are welcome to attend and share stories of Hopson. Racers are invited to bring their race cars on a trailer, as it was Hopson’s wish to start everyone’s engines as a “send-off,” his wife Aubree said in a public Facebook post.