LEON COUNTY, TX — A wave of grief has swept through the communities of Bryan and Leon County following a devastating crash that claimed the lives of two deeply loved men. Matthew Sovick, 44, and Christopher Gorman, 49, both residents of Bryan, Texas, were tragically killed early Wednesday morning, July 16, 2025, in a collision along FM 39 just north of Jewett.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reports that the crash occurred at approximately 5:58 a.m. when the northbound 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by Sovick, collided with the back of a turning northbound Peterbilt tractor-trailer out of Houston. The impact forced the SUV underneath the trailer, killing both Matthew and Christopher at the scene.
The sudden loss of these two men has sent shockwaves through their families, circles of friends, and the wider Bryan community. United in both life and death, Matthew and Christopher leave behind not only shared memories but legacies defined by kindness, loyalty, and genuine human connection.
Remembering Matthew Sovick
A Heart Full of Laughter and Loyalty
Matthew was the kind of friend who became family. Known for his sharp sense of humor, infectious laugh, and unwavering kindness, he had a presence that brought joy to every room he entered. His loyalty to loved ones was unmatched — always there, always steady, always kind. Whether hosting family gatherings or simply sharing quiet conversations over coffee, Matthew made people feel seen, heard, and cherished.
He was a connector — a man whose presence naturally brought others together. His compassion was both instinctive and intentional, a constant comfort to those around him.
Honoring Christopher Gorman
A Gentle Soul and Quiet Strength
Christopher, or “Chris” as many lovingly called him, was known for his soft-spoken nature and enormous heart. He was a man of depth and calm — someone whose steady presence anchored friends and family alike. A dependable listener and thoughtful friend, Chris had a way of turning ordinary interactions into meaningful memories.
His gift wasn’t in grand gestures, but in small moments — the quiet wisdom shared, the reassuring nod, the unexpected kindness when it was needed most. He was the kind of man who left people better than he found them.
A Bond Beyond Words
Matthew and Christopher were more than close friends — they were chosen family. Their friendship was forged in laughter, deep trust, and countless shared experiences. Whether on road trips, at weekend cookouts, or simply navigating life’s everyday ups and downs, the two were rarely apart. Their lives were intertwined in a way that made their loss doubly profound.
A Community Reflects
As tributes pour in, the grief is matched only by gratitude — for the joy Matthew and Chris brought into the world, for the people they uplifted, and for the love they gave freely.
“Matthew’s laugh could change your whole day. He had that kind of power.”
“Chris had this way of making you feel safe just by listening. He was our quiet strength.”
“They were brothers in every sense except blood.”
Funeral Arrangements and Support
The Sovick and Gorman families are currently coordinating a joint memorial to honor the beautiful friendship these men shared. Details regarding public visitation and funeral services will be announced in the coming days. The families welcome stories, photos, and remembrances to help preserve their legacies.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to causes and community efforts that reflect Matthew and Christopher’s values — kindness, unity, and support for others.
A Final Farewell
The road where Matthew and Christopher lost their lives now bears the weight of immense sorrow — but it also bears witness to the impact of two lives lived with compassion, laughter, and quiet strength. Their absence will be deeply felt, but their presence will echo on in every person they touched.
May they rest in peace, side by side.
Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.
