Local News
April Ballard and Jesse Southard Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on I-65 in Pelham
PELHAM, Ala. — A tragic early morning crash on Interstate 65 in Pelham claimed the lives of two individuals on Friday, April 24, according to the Shelby County Coroner’s Office.
Officials identified the victims as 20-year-old Jesse Southard of Birmingham and 36-year-old April Ballard of Leeds.
Both were pronounced dead following the head-on collision.
Authorities say the crash occurred around 3 a.m. when Ballard, driving a truck southbound in the northbound lanes of I-65, collided head-on with Southard’s vehicle.
The impact resulted in fatal injuries for both drivers.
The incident led to the temporary closure of the northbound lanes of I-65 between the Tank Farm exit and the Oak Mountain State Park exit, causing traffic disruptions for several hours as emergency crews responded and investigators processed the scene.
Shelby County Coroner Lina Evans confirmed that toxicology samples from both victims have been submitted to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for analysis.
While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities have indicated that alcohol impairment and excessive speed are believed to be potential contributing factors in the crash.
However, officials emphasized that final determinations will depend on the results of the ongoing investigation and toxicology reports.
In light of the fatal incident, officials are urging motorists to exercise caution, remain alert, and avoid impaired driving.
“People need to be aware of their surroundings at all times,” Evans stated, emphasizing the importance of safe and responsible driving behaviors.
The circumstances surrounding the crash continue to be investigated by local authorities.
Additional details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
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.