-
Beaumont first responders work a crash scene (Photos courtesy of Jerome Cabeen) -
Beaumont first responders work a crash scene (Photos courtesy of Jerome Cabeen) -
(Photo from BPD) -
(Photo from BPD)
Beaumont business tycoon Walter "Loddie" Naymola is being investigated in the cause of the accident that damaged multiple vehicles -- reportedly resulting in multiple injuries, but no deaths -- at the intersection of Dowlen and Gladys, multiple sources confirmed to The Examiner June 24.
The Examiner has confirmed that the driver of the blue Dodge pickup that allegedly caused a multiple-car accident on Dowlen Road Wednesday afternoon was driven by Beaumont native and multimillionaire Loddie Naymola.
Much speculation has been posted by multiple witnesses on social media, describing the condition of the driver and whether it was an alcohol or medical incident. Friday morning, The Examiner had confirmed that the driver of the Ram pickup is, in fact, in ICU at St. Elizabeth hospital. The Beaumont Police Department was still awaiting results of a blood warrant as of June 24.
Beaumont native Naymola’s fortune is widely reported in Australia, where he is known as a “Texas billionaire” who has cornered the market on American capitalism in the eastern continent. At Naymola’s alma mater in Texas, Stephen F. Austin State University administration recommended to the Board of Regents in January 2020 that the name the institution’s new basketball performance center after the notable Southeast Texan. In accordance with board rules and regulations, buildings and other facilities may be named for persons, both living and deceased, “who make a significant donation to the university.”
An SFA resolution about Naymola reads: “Walter E. “Loddie” Naymola, Jr. has faithfully served and continues to serve Stephen F. Austin State University with distinction and honor as a dedicated alumnus; and … in his loyal dedication to SFA through his generous gifts of support, entrepreneurial spirit and standards of excellence, he is setting a distinguished example for others.”
Calls from The Examiner to Naymola's businesses and foundation went unanswered June 24. For more on the story, pick up a copy of The Examiner June 30.