Sara Lea Nix and Her Young Daughter, Obituary Death: Remembered After Fatal Highway 160 Collision in Arkansas

LAFAYETTE COUNTY, Arkansas — The family and community of Sara Lea Nix are mourning the loss of the 28-year-old mother and her three-year-old daughter, Raylea Chanler Nix, who died in a collision on Arkansas Highway 160 near Gin on October 16, 2025. Authorities reported that smoke from a nearby fire had significantly reduced visibility along the roadway.

According to reports citing the preliminary Arkansas State Police crash summary, the collision occurred at approximately 3:35 p.m. A westbound 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Sara collided with an eastbound 2007 Freightliner truck. Sara and her young daughter, who was riding in the vehicle, died at the scene. No other injuries were initially reported.

Sara, of Bradley, Arkansas, was remembered in her family’s obituary as a devoted mother who loved spending time with her children. Born on August 3, 1997, she enjoyed crafts, shopping, camping and barrel racing. She also worked as a pageant director and was praised in the obituary for her work as a labor and delivery nurse.

Her daughter, Raylea, was born on August 13, 2022. Her family remembered her love of pageants, horses and apples. The two deaths have left their relatives and loved ones facing a profound loss.

Initial reports said smoke drifting across Highway 160 from a nearby fire impaired drivers’ visibility at the time of the crash. Arkansas State Police noted smoky road conditions in its preliminary account. The agency cautions that preliminary fatal-crash summaries may not reflect all findings in a final investigation.

In April 2026, a lawsuit filed by Sara’s husband alleged that the fire and the handling of the scene created hazardous conditions on the highway. Those allegations are claims made in a civil complaint and should not be treated as final judicial findings.

Sara and Raylea were laid to rest following funeral services in Bradley in October 2025. Their obituary notices preserve memories of their lives and the family members who continue to cherish them.

Their deaths also underscore the serious dangers that smoke and limited visibility can pose on public roads, particularly when drivers encounter unexpected hazards.