The community of San Benito is mourning the tragic loss of Ezra Andrea Duke Villafranco, 23, whose life was cut short in a fatal two-vehicle crash on the evening of May 15, 2026, at the intersection of San Jose Ranch Road and FM 509 in Harlingen.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. A Kawasaki ER-6 motorcycle, operated by Villafranco, was traveling on FM 509 and was reportedly passing vehicles in a no-passing zone while approaching the intersection with San Jose Ranch Road.
At the same time, a Toyota Tacoma pulling a trailer was traveling on San Jose Ranch Road and attempted to make a left turn onto FM 509, where the collision occurred.
The impact was severe, leaving Villafranco critically injured. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported him to Valley Baptist Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased as a result of his injuries.
At just 23 years old, Ezra’s sudden passing has left his family, friends, and loved ones devastated and struggling to process an unexpected loss. His death has brought deep sorrow to the community of Harlingen, where he is now being remembered with grief and heartbreak.
Those who knew Ezra are holding tightly to memories of his life, reflecting on the person he was beyond the tragedy. He was a son, a friend, and someone whose presence left a lasting impact on the people around him.
As the community mourns, there is a shared sense of sorrow over another young life lost far too soon on Texas roadways.
Rest in peace, Ezra Andrea Duke Villafranco. Forever loved, forever remembered.
