Local News
44-year-old Patches Ford Killed in Crash With Tractor-Trailer in East Jefferson County
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. — A 44-year-old woman from Guntersville was killed following a crash involving a tractor-trailer in east Jefferson County on Thursday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Patches Rachelle Ford, 44, of Guntersville, Alabama.
According to officials, the fatal collision occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. on May 14 along Alabama 79 at Narrows Road in the Pinson area of east Jefferson County.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene after reports of a serious crash involving a passenger vehicle and a tractor-trailer.
Authorities said Ford sustained critical injuries in the collision and was transported to UAB Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Despite lifesaving efforts by medical personnel, Ford was pronounced dead at the hospital at 1:39 p.m.
Officials have not yet released additional details regarding how the crash occurred or what may have led to the collision with the tractor-trailer.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly wreck. Investigators are expected to review evidence from the crash scene and determine whether any contributing factors played a role in the incident.
The death of Patches Rachelle Ford has left family members and the Guntersville community mourning as authorities continue their investigation into the fatal Alabama 79 crash near Pinson.
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.