Kathleen Hargrave Killed in Accident at Hegar Rd in Harris County, TX

Authorities are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred on April 8, 2025, at approximately 8:40 p.m. on Hegar Road in Harris County, Texas. According to investigators, a Chevrolet Equinox was traveling northbound when it veered from its lane, struck a guardrail, and caught fire. The driver, identified as 76-year-old Kathleen Hargrave, sustained fatal injuries. No other vehicles were involved. Additional information was not available.

Could an auto defect have caused this accident?

Most people would be surprised to learn how often an automotive defect plays a role in an accident. Sometimes, the defect causes the accident, and sometimes, it merely makes the injuries worse. Below is a list of the known issues that federal regulators have drawn the public’s attention to.

Also, note that some issues are not specific to a make and model but are problems that generally affect the automotive industry and warrant investigation.

Most commonly reported issues: Chevrolet Equinox *

*There is no way to know whether a vehicle defect contributed to a crash, injury, or death without an examination of the vehicle by a qualified expert. Potential vehicle issues cited here are based upon recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a part of the United States Department of Transportation.