Russell Co, AL (March 25, 2025) – A fatal crash occurred early Sunday morning, March 23, in Russell County, claiming the life of a young woman from Huntsville. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reported that the collision happened around 5:15 a.m. on US 431 near the 90-mile marker, approximately 25 miles south of Phenix City.

According to ALEA, a 2020 Jeep Wrangler driven by Emma G. Howard, 19, collided with the rear end of a 2025 Peterbilt tractor-trailer operated by Trenton Z. Parry, 23, of Gillsville, GA. Emergency responders, including ALEA troopers, Russell County Sheriff’s Office deputies, and local firefighters, arrived at the scene to assist. Howard was pronounced dead on-site due to the severity of her injuries.

The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities worked to secure the area, directing traffic while crews cleared debris and assessed the scene. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Emma G. Howard during this difficult time.

Fatal Car Accidents in Russell County and Common Causes of Wrongful Death

In 2023, Alabama recorded nearly 1,000 fatalities from traffic crashes, underscoring the ongoing dangers on the state’s roadways. Russell County has been identified as a high-risk area, particularly along U.S. Highway 431 and Alabama 165, where fatal collisions are more frequent. Officials have raised concerns about the need for improved road safety measures to reduce these tragedies.

The leading causes of fatal crashes in Alabama include reckless driving, speeding, and driving under the influence. Distracted driving and failure to obey traffic laws also contribute significantly to wrongful deaths. Addressing these factors through increased awareness and stricter enforcement could help prevent future accidents and save lives.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in the area, a compassionate Russell County wrongful death attorney from Maloney-Lyons, with proficiency in fatal car accidents, is ready to provide the assistance you need. We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to client advocacy and our successful track record in handling negligence cases.

Contact Maloney-Lyons today at (251) 225-6105 to schedule a consultation regarding your close one’s fatal Russell County car accident. Our team is prepared to guide you through every step of the legal process, making sure your rights are thoroughly protected.