Mineral Wells Area News

On the evening of June 6, Texas Game Wardens, the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office and Sacred Cross EMS responded to a propeller strike on Possum Kingdom Lake.

According to a statement from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, a 23-year-old Abilene man was being pulled on a tube when he was struck by the vessel’s propeller. Three people were on board the vessel at the time.

“The victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The vessel operator has been charged with intoxication manslaughter,” stated TP&W Public Information Officer Maggie Berger.

Justin Pillard, a 21-year-old Abilene man was arrested by the Palo Pinto County Sheriff’s Office and was charged with vehicular manslaughter in the incident.

“Further details are currently unavailable out of respect for the victim’s family and as we continue our investigation,” stated Berger. “Our thoughts remain with the man’s loved ones during this difficult time.”