The community of West Blocton is mourning the loss of 47-year-old Nicholas Amar Poole, who was killed in a tragic two-vehicle crash early Saturday morning. According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, the fatal collision occurred on Interstate 59/20, cutting short the life of a man known by many for his quiet strength and deep roots in his community. His sudden passing has left family and friends devastated as they struggle to process the heartbreaking news.
Officials reported that the crash took place at approximately 5:19 a.m. on November 22 near mile marker 107, close to the busy I-459 interchange. Poole was traveling southbound and was the sole occupant of his vehicle when the collision occurred. The circumstances leading up to the crash have not yet been fully detailed, but authorities say the impact left Poole in critical condition. The early hour—when roads can be dark and visibility limited—may become a factor in the ongoing investigation.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts to save him, Poole was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:40 a.m. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity shortly afterward. First responders described a chaotic scene as they attempted to gain control of the site, which required temporary lane restrictions while crews worked to clear debris and secure the area.
The Bessemer Police Department is now handling the investigation, though they have yet to release additional details about the second vehicle involved. Authorities have not indicated whether speed, driver impairment, mechanical issues, or roadway conditions contributed to the collision. Investigators are expected to analyze the crash scene evidence thoroughly, including vehicle positioning, skid marks, and roadway visibility, in hopes of determining what sequence of events led to the tragedy.
Fatal crashes along that stretch of I-59/20 are, unfortunately, not uncommon. The interchange near I-459 is known for heavy traffic, merging lanes, and sudden shifts in speed—conditions that can quickly become dangerous, particularly during early-morning hours when drivers may be fatigued. Safety officials continue to stress the importance of alert driving and caution in high-traffic zones, especially on major interstates.
As the investigation continues, the West Blocton community is left to grieve the loss of a man whose presence will be profoundly missed. Family members are asking for privacy as they process their grief, while authorities encourage anyone with information related to the crash to come forward. For now, loved ones hold tightly to memories of Nicholas Amar Poole as they await answers about the tragic events that claimed his life.
