Mother vows to fulfill daughter’s bakery dream after Texas teen killed in crash

ATASCOCITA, Texas — Zion Branch spent years dreaming of opening her own bakery. Now, her mother says she will make that dream a reality after the 19‑year‑old was killed when a driver crashed into the Nothing Bundt Cakes shop where she worked.

According to authorities, Branch died June 30 after a man in his 70s accidently accelerated through the storefront when his foot slipped trying to park. The driver tragically struck Branch at the counter and injured others inside, according to Harris County deputies. Investigators said the driver stayed at the scene and reportedly showed no signs of intoxication. He was not arrested.

Branch’s family has hired attorney Ben Crump who will assist the family with the investigation into the crash.

The attorneys for Branch’s family said they want more information about the crash and whether additional safety measures at the shopping center could have prevented it. Additionally, full transparency about the investigation into the driver.

Authorities say the crash remains under investigation.

A Mother’s Promise

Branch’s mother, Karamell Brown, told 11 Alive her daughter talked constantly about owning a bakery. She took the job at Nothing Bundt Cakes to learn the business from the inside.

“Rest assured that mama will see all of your plans in life through, including Zion’s cupcake and bakery,” Brown wrote on the family’s GoFundMe page.

“We want to honor Zion’s memory and fulfill her dream of opening a bakery.”

The fundraiser, which had raised more than $32,000, will help cover funeral costs and support the launch of a bakery in Branch’s honor.

Remembering Zion Branch

Branch had recently graduated from Guy M. Sconzo Early College High School and planned to study finance at the University of Houston‑Downtown. Friends said she was ambitious, focused and determined to build a life she loved.

The GoFundMe post said Branch was the best older sister and that her family will miss her tremendously.

“You were such an amazing person,” Brown wrote. “I don’t know how the world will be without you.”

Community Support Grows

Flowers, candles and handwritten notes now line the sidewalk outside the bakery. Coworkers described Branch as someone who brightened every shift and made customers feel welcome.

Brown said the community’s support has helped her stay focused on her daughter’s dream.

“The funds raised will help start Zion’s bakery, carrying forward her dreams and legacy,” the GoFundMe reads.

To learn more about the fundraiser, visit the verified GoFundMe.