Memorial planned for Abilene

ABILENE –A memorial sign set to be unveiled Sept. 16 along Interstate 20 in Callahan County in memory of Aspen Blessing, a young girl whose life was taken from her by a drunk driver.

Aspen, a vibrant 18-year-old with her whole life in front of her, was tragically killed on March 10, 2024, after she was struck head-on by a drunk driver on IH 20. Forever changed by one person’s choice to drink and drive, her family is left with a profound void.

TxDOT’s Memorial Sign Program gives loved ones the opportunity to purchase and place a commemorative sign near the site of the crash. The memorial sign includes the victim’s name and helps to raise awareness of preventable tragedies. Aspen’s memorial sign will be located westbound along IH 20.

In 2023, there were more than 23,000 alcohol related traffic crashes in Texas resulting in

1,069 fatalities. In the Abilene District, there were 236 alcohol related crashes resulting in 12 fatalities. Each of these crashes were 100% preventable.

The memorial sign unveiling is set for Wednesday, Sept.16 at 10 a.m. between FM 603 and Buck Creek Road. Parking will be located on the north IH 20 frontage road, just past the roadside rest area. Attendees should take exit 297, the exit for FM 603.

For more information, contact Alaisha Montanez at alaisha.montanez@txdot.gov or 325-676-6817.