Published: February 28, 2009 08:57 pm      

Deweyville QB Lairsey dies in early-morning accident

The “heart and soul” of the Deweyville High School offense was killed about 4 a.m. Sat-urday on Highway 87 near County Road 4191.

According to officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety, Destin Lairsey, 17, of Orange, was killed after the 1994 Chevrolet pickup he was driving took a curve too fast. The pickup left the roadway and struck several trees before coming to a stop.

The passenger in the pickup, Jacob Burris, 17, of Deweyville, was transferred to Memorial Hermann Baptist Hospital-Orange. He is believed to be in good condition with minor injuries.   

His football coach, Russell McDaniel, said the junior at Deweyville High School was a great athlete with a very competitive spirit.

“He was a fierce competitor,” McDaniel said.

Lairsey had also just started baseball season.

McDaniel said the school will have counselors available at the campus for students who need counseling regarding the tragedy.

“This is one of those tragedies in life that sometimes happen,” McDaniel said. “We will do everything we can.”

McDaniel said he is not aware of any funeral services scheduled as of yet.