Hudson Lil Huddy Taylor, an 11-year-old boy from Centerville, TX, tragically lost his life on June 2, 2022. Hudson, along with his brothers Waylon Collins, 18, and Carson Collins, 16, and his cousin Bryson Collins, 11, were found murdered at their family ranch in Centerville. The victims were discovered after a relative contacted law enforcement for a welfare check. The cause of death for Hudson and his family members was determined to be a combination of gunshot and stab wounds.
The medical examiner ruled their deaths as homicides.
The investigation revealed that the family was likely killed by an escaped inmate, Gonzalo Lopez, who had broken into their home. Lopez, who had escaped from a prison transport bus in May 2022, was believed to have committed the murders before being killed in a shootout with police hours after the family's bodies were discovered. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice confirmed that Lopez was the primary suspect in the case.
Hudson Taylor Collins, as he was also known, was a bright and empathetic child who loved golf and excelled in school. He was baptized just days before his death and was excited about his journey as a Christian. The Collins family, deeply rooted in their faith, expressed their devastation and gratitude for the support they received from their community during this difficult time.
The tragic deaths of Hudson and his family members have left a lasting impact on their community, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding their murders continues to be a significant case in Centerville, TX.
