Local News
Moulton Mother and her two children killed in two-vehicle wreck in Lawrence County
LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ala. — A devastating two-vehicle crash at a rural intersection has left a mother and two children dead, while two other children remain in critical condition, authorities confirmed.
The collision occurred at the intersection of Alabama Highway 157 and Alabama Highway 24 in Moulton and involved a Chevrolet Suburban and a Ford F-150 pickup truck.
According to officials, 33-year-old Ashley Haygood was driving the Suburban with her four children inside when the vehicle was struck on the side by the pickup.
Emergency responders pronounced two children, 13-year-old Bryant Ballew and 7-year-old Bryleigh Pledger, deceased at the scene.
Haygood was transported to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.
Two additional children in the vehicle, identified as 10-year-old Bentley Pledger and 7-year-old Brynleigh Pledger, sustained critical injuries and were airlifted to Children’s of Birmingham, where they remain in intensive care.
The driver of the Ford F-150 sustained only minor injuries.
Authorities temporarily shut down the intersection for several hours as crews worked the scene and investigators began reconstructing the crash.
The roadway has since reopened, but the investigation into the cause of the collision remains ongoing.
Family members and community members have described Haygood as a devoted mother whose life centered around her children.
The tragic loss has sent shockwaves through the Moulton and Hartselle communities, with an outpouring of support and condolences for the affected families.
First responders who arrived at the scene were confronted with a deeply traumatic situation, working urgently to provide aid under extremely difficult circumstances.
As the community grieves, local leaders and residents are calling for prayers and support for the families, particularly for the two children who remain hospitalized and fighting for their lives.
The tragedy has left a lasting impact, with many emphasizing the importance of coming together in the days ahead to support those affected by the loss.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.