Bellville ISD is grieving the loss of an O’Bryant Intermediate School math specialist who died Wednesday morning, December 17, 2025 following a head-on collision in Austin County.
According to Texas Department of Public Safety Sergeant Stephen Woodard, the crash occurred around 7:15 a.m. on FM 949, north of FM 1094, in the Cat Spring community. A preliminary investigation indicates a 2013 Volvo commercial motor vehicle (CMV) was traveling southbound when it left its lane and struck a northbound 2022 Toyota Highlander head-on.
The driver of the Toyota, 55-year-old Shirley Hegemeyer Biehunko of Cat Spring, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Bellville ISD Superintendent Dr. Nicole Poenitzsch confirmed Biehunko’s passing and said she served as a math specialist at O’Bryant Intermediate School, where she made a lasting impact on students and staff alike.
“Words cannot describe how much Mrs. Biehunko meant to so many,” Poenitzsch said in a statement. “We ask that you join us in praying for her family, our OBI family, and all who were blessed to know, work with, or be taught by Mrs. Biehunko.”
In a message shared by the O’Bryant Intermediate campus, staff acknowledged the profound loss felt throughout the school and expressed gratitude for the support shown during a difficult day.
“Yesterday was a very hard day for our little campus,” the message stated. “Staff and students are feeling the devastating loss of our beloved Mrs. Biehunko. We ask that you continue to keep all of us in your thoughts and prayers; especially Mrs. Biehunko’s family and friends.”
The campus also highlighted the outpouring of support from across the district, noting that Bellville ISD staff stepped in to help ensure students were cared for during the day.
“Bellville ISD showed up for us,” the message continued. “Every available staff member from administration and campuses came to cover classes, lunch duty, and recess time for our teachers and staff. It was heartwarming to have their support and love. Thank you again to you all. We will never forget it.”
The driver of the commercial motor vehicle involved in the crash was transported to Midcoast Medical Center in Bellville for treatment. DPS officials said the investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
