Southwest Texas College Provides Update on May 28 Training Incident

Southwest Texas College Provides Update on May 28 Training Incident

Uvalde, TX, June 25, 2026 - Southwest Texas College is providing an update regarding the tragic incident that occurred on May 28, 2026, at approximately 2:21 PM at the College’s Powerline Technology Training Site.

During a scheduled instructional exercise involving a bucket truck, two students were elevated while performing routine training activities when the equipment’s boom unexpectedly descended. Emergency response protocols were immediately activated, and local emergency medical services arrived on site within minutes.

Injuries and Medical Response

Two students were involved in the incident. One student sustained serious injuries, received advanced medical treatment, and has since been released from the hospital and is currently recovering.

Tragically, a second student sustained critical injuries and, despite lifesaving efforts by emergency responders, passed away.

Immediate Actions

Following the incident:

• Campus Police secured the scene.
• Emergency medical personnel transported both students for care.
• The equipment involved was removed from service and secured.
• The College initiated internal protocols and notified appropriate authorities.

Ongoing Investigation

The cause of the incident remains under active investigation. At this time:

• The equipment had previously undergone maintenance and had been returned to service.
• The specific cause of the malfunction has not yet been determined.
• The College is arranging for an independent, third-party inspection to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

Findings regarding causation will be shared when the investigation is complete.

Support for Students, Faculty, and Families

Southwest Texas College has mobilized resources to support those impacted by this tragedy:

• Counseling services are being provided to students, faculty, and staff.
• The College is assisting the affected families with immediate needs.
• Academic accommodations have been offered to students within the program.

Program Status and Safety Measures

The Powerline Technology Program was temporarily paused following the incident. Instruction has since resumed with modifications to enhance safety. Certain equipment, including bucket truck operations, will remain out of use until further notice.

The College is conducting a comprehensive safety review that includes:

• Equipment inspection and maintenance procedures
• Operational safety protocols
• Instructor oversight and training practices
• Curriculum and risk management measures

Additionally, the College will engage its advisory council and external experts to identify and implement any necessary improvements.

Commitment to Safety and Transparency

“The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority,” said Dr. Hector Gonzales, SWTX President. “We are committed to a thorough and objective investigation and to taking all appropriate steps to prevent such an incident from occurring again."

Closing

This is a deeply tragic event that has affected the entire Southwest Texas College community. The College extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of those impacted.

Out of respect for the ongoing investigation and the privacy of those involved, additional information will be shared as it becomes available.