The Galveston, Texas, community is in deep mourning following the tragic loss of 41-year-old Matthew Hayes. Matthew’s life was cut short in a devastating hit-and-run crash on the evening of Sunday, April 19, 2026, in the area of the 2200 block between Avenues J and K.
Matthew is remembered as a kind-hearted man, a dedicated worker, and a beloved member of the Island community. His sudden death has left his family and friends heartbroken and pleading for the public’s help in finding the driver responsible.
The Details of the Incident
According to the Galveston Police Department, the incident occurred during the late evening hours on Sunday.
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The Crash: At approximately 9:30 p.m., Matthew was traveling in the residential area near Avenues J and K when he was struck by a vehicle.
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The Flight: Witnesses reported that the driver of the vehicle failed to stop and render aid, fleeing the scene immediately following the collision.
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The Response: Emergency responders arrived quickly and located Matthew with critical injuries. He was rushed to the UTMB Health John Sealy Hospital trauma center.
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The Outcome: Despite the heroic efforts of the medical staff, Matthew tragically succumbed to his injuries.
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The Investigation: Investigators are currently reviewing neighborhood surveillance footage and collecting debris from the scene to identify the make and model of the suspect’s vehicle.
A Pillar of the Island Community
At 41, Matthew Hayes was a man who truly called Galveston home. He was a familiar face to many, known for his easy-going nature and his willingness to help anyone in need.
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A Devoted Family Member: To his family, Matthew was a constant source of support. He was a man who prioritized family gatherings and was known for his loyalty to his parents and siblings.
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A Hard Worker: Matthew was highly respected in his professional life, known for his reliability and his “Island-style” friendliness that made him a favorite among coworkers and customers alike.
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A Kind Soul: Friends describe “Matt” as a man who lived simply and loved deeply. He had a passion for the Gulf, enjoyed the local community events, and was always ready with a joke to lighten the mood.
“Matthew didn’t have an enemy in the world. He was a good man who was just living his life, and to have him taken from us by someone who didn’t even have the heart to stop is a pain I can’t describe. We just want justice for him.” — A Close Friend
Seeking Justice and Community Support
As the Hayes family navigates this unimaginable grief, the Galveston community is rallying together to seek answers and provide comfort.
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Justice for Matthew: Authorities are urging anyone who was in the area of Avenues J and K on Sunday night to come forward. “We are looking for a vehicle with significant front-end damage,” a police spokesperson noted.
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Memorial Tributes: A roadside memorial has begun to grow near the site of the crash, with flowers and candles placed by neighbors and friends. A community prayer vigil is being planned for later this week.
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Support for the Family: Friends have established a memorial fund to assist Matthew’s family with final arrangements and to offer a reward for information leading to an arrest.
A Somber Reflection
The death of Matthew Hayes is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of hit-and-run accidents. As the sun sets over the Island he loved, the community holds Matthew’s family in their thoughts, hoping that the person responsible will come forward to provide the closure this family so desperately needs.
Rest in Peace, Matthew. Your kindness left a mark on this Island that will never be washed away by the tide.
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