On a quiet Sunday evening in March 2024, a single-vehicle crash on a Texas highway changed many lives forever. The accident claimed the life of Michael Doggett, a beloved figure in the Texas craft beer community.
This piece shares what happened that night, who Michael Doggett was, and how his loss continues to impact those who knew him.
Crash on I-45 Claims Brewery Owner
At 9:13 p.m. on March 10, 2024, tragedy struck on Interstate Highway 45 just north of Corsicana in Navarro County, Texas. Michael Doggett, a 35-year-old resident of Cedar Park, was driving his 2022 Nissan Frontier pickup southbound when the unthinkable happened.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Doggett’s vehicle failed to navigate a left-hand curve on the highway. The pickup truck veered off the roadway and collided with a bridge pillar. The violent crash proved fatal even with his seatbelt; Doggett suffered fatal injuries.
Justice of the Peace Jackie Freeland declared him dead at the scene. The road conditions were dry at the time, and the posted speed limit was 75 mph.
The Investigation Continues
Trooper C. Bennett from the DPS Corsicana office continues investigating the accident. While preliminary findings suggest the vehicle’s failure to navigate the curve led to the crash, authorities continue to examine all aspects of this tragic incident.
Texas DPS confirmed a preliminary crash report will be available online ten days post-accident. This report might contain additional details about the factors contributing to the crash.
Who Was Michael Doggett?
Michael Kenneth Doggett was born on March 31, 1988, in Fort Hood, Texas, to Georganna Peterson. At the time of his death, he was just weeks shy of his 36th birthday.
Those who knew him describe Doggett as a man with an infectious personality who never met a stranger. Benjamin Sledge, a friend, wrote, “His energy lit up rooms, and he was so well liked that in the local Austin area, a common question was, ‘Do you know a guy named Doggett!?'”
Doggett had a special way of connecting with people. He valued acts of service and considered helping others an honor. Friends recall that he was never angry and always ready with a warm embrace and kind words.
A Rising Star in the Brewing Community
Michael Doggett was a significant figure in the Texas craft beer scene. His journey in the industry began at Red Horn Coffee House and Brewing Co., where he was one of the first employees hired. Over eight years, he worked his way up from barista to management and eventually became the Director of Hospitality.
His passion for craft beer and hospitality led him to co-found Obsidian Brewery in Leander, Texas, alongside his longtime friend Safir Ahmed. The pair took over the space previously occupied by Humble Pint Brewing Co. and transformed it into a vibrant establishment in just six weeks.
At Obsidian Brewery, Doggett helped create not just a place for craft beer but also an innovative cocktail program. His experience in hospitality allowed him to develop a well-rounded craft cocktail menu that set the brewery apart in the area.
His Surviving Family
The tragedy of Michael Doggett’s sudden passing is deepened by the family he left behind. He is survived by his devoted wife, Brandi, who was pregnant with their first child at the time of the accident.
Friends noted that Michael was extremely excited about becoming a father. His obituary states, “Michael’s joy knew no bounds when he learned that he and Brandi were expecting their first child, due in June. He was eagerly anticipating fatherhood.”
The couple had affectionately nicknamed their unborn child “Lil’ Doggett,” and Michael was looking forward to this new chapter in his life.
Community Response and Support
The news of Michael Doggett’s sudden death devastated the Texas craft beer community. The Texas Craft Brewers Guild acknowledged the tragic loss, calling him a “longtime team member at Red Horn and the co-owner of Obsidian Brewery.”
Red Horn Coffee House and Brewing Co., where Doggett spent many years, expressed their grief on social media: “We’re heartbroken to have lost our brother. More words may come to us in the coming days, but right now, we’re just processing and grieving.”
The Memorial Fund
Following the accident, friends and community members established a memorial fund to support Brandi Doggett as she faced the challenges ahead, including the birth of their first child.
The GoFundMe page for the memorial fund states, “As Brandi faces this sudden tragedy and prepares for the arrival of their first child ‘Lil’ Doggett’, we ask that you donate. This fund will provide a safety net for the baby’s future.”
The brewing community has rallied around the family, with numerous breweries and individuals sharing the fund and encouraging donations. Windmills Brewery expressed condolences and promoted the memorial fund to “support Michael’s wife, Brandi, and their upcoming baby.”
Remembering a Life of Impact
Michael Doggett’s impact extended far beyond his professional achievements. He was known for his warm personality and ability to make everyone feel welcome. One Reddit user commented, “Mike was an all-timer. Our first ever hire at Red Horn and everyone’s best friend. My guy always brought soul to anything he was involved with.”
Another friend noted on Reddit, “The impact he had not only in the Austin scene but around the entire state of Texas just goes to show how much he meant to so many people.”
Benjamin Sledge, in his heartfelt Medium article, recalled how Doggett would always end their meetings with a bear hug and the words, “I love you. You’re handsome. And you’re a good dad.”
The Future of Obsidian Brewery
While the craft beer community mourns the loss of Michael Doggett, questions remain about the future of Obsidian Brewery. The establishment, which Doggett co-founded with Safir Ahmed, had quickly become a notable addition to the Texas craft beer scene.
In their tribute, Craft Beer Austin described Doggett as “our friend and pillar of the beer community.” His creativity and hospitality experience helped shape the brewery’s unique offerings and welcoming atmosphere.
Lessons from a Tragic Accident
The fatal crash that took Michael Doggett’s life highlights ongoing road safety concerns. Interstate 45, where the accident occurred, has seen its share of serious crashes over the years.
While the investigation into this specific incident continues, the loss highlights the importance of vigilance, especially when navigating curves on high-speed highways. Even with dry road conditions and safety measures like seatbelts, accidents can happen in an instant.
Though his life was cut short, Michael Doggett leaves behind a powerful legacy. His approach to life—serving others, spreading joy, and forming meaningful connections—continues to inspire those who knew him.
One friend commented on Instagram, “Baby Doggett has the best army around them, starting with the most warm and graceful mother who will make sure they know love and laughter, cause it’s what Michael would want.”
Honoring Doggett’s Legacy
The tragic car accident that claimed Michael Doggett’s life on March 10, 2024, left a void in the hearts of many. As a beloved husband, father-to-be, friend, and pillar of the Texas craft beer community, his sudden passing shocked and saddened all who knew him.
While the investigation into the crash continues, the outpouring of support for his family demonstrates the profound impact he had during his 35 years. Through the memorial fund and countless tributes, his legacy lives on—a testament to a life well-lived, albeit too briefly.
For those wishing to honor Michael Doggett’s memory, contributions to the memorial fund will help support his wife Brandi, and their child as they face the future without him. In this way, the community continues the spirit of service that Michael himself embodied throughout his life.
