Fatal Crash on SH 71 Claims One Life, Driver Arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter

In the early hours of Thursday, October 5, 2023, tragedy struck on State Highway 71 (SH 71) in Austin as a collision involving three vehicles took place, resulting in the death of one individual. The incident occurred at approximately 4:44 a.m. in the 1500 block of SH 71 Westbound.

According to a preliminary investigation conducted by the Austin Police Department (APD), a 44-year-old man identified as Ruben Ysasi II was driving an SUV traveling west on SH 71 when, for reasons yet to be determined, it crossed into the eastbound traffic lane. This resulted in a head-on collision with another SUV driven by 28-year-old Austin K. Buckley.

Tragically, Austin K. Buckley lost his life at the scene of the crash. The impact of the collision was severe, leading to extensive damage to both vehicles involved. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to provide assistance, but their efforts were unable to save Buckley.

Subsequently, the Austin Police Department arrested Ruben Ysasi II in connection with the fatal crash. Ysasi faces charges of Intoxication Manslaughter and Accident Involving Death. The circumstances leading to the collision and Ysasi’s alleged intoxication are currently under investigation.

The third SUV, which was also traveling eastbound, was involved in the incident as well, crashing into the rear of Austin K. Buckley’s vehicle. While the driver of the third SUV sustained injuries, the severity of those injuries has not been disclosed at this time.

Anyone with any information should contact APD’s Vehicular Homicide unit at 512-974-8111. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.