TROY, Ala. — A tragic early-morning police pursuit near Troy University ended in the deaths of two Troy residents after their vehicle slammed into a utility pole, authorities confirmed. The deadly crash occurred Sunday and has prompted an ongoing investigation by state law enforcement as the community reflects on the loss of two lives under devastating circumstances.
According to the Troy University Police Department, the incident unfolded around 1:48 a.m. on Elm Street, just off the Troy University campus. An officer attempted to make contact with a vehicle that was stopped along the roadway. Instead of complying, the driver accelerated rapidly and fled, leading officers on a short but dangerous pursuit through the area.
Police said the chase ended moments later when the fleeing vehicle left the roadway and collided violently with a utility pole. The force of the impact caused extensive damage, and both occupants inside the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but there were no survivors.
On Monday, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) identified the victims as 52-year-old Rosolando V. Givens, who was driving the vehicle, and 45-year-old Alkesa S. Liptrot, who was riding as a passenger. Authorities confirmed that both individuals were residents of Troy but were not affiliated with Troy University as students.
Investigators also revealed that neither Givens nor Liptrot was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. While officials have not released the official causes of death, ALEA noted that the lack of restraints likely contributed to the fatal outcome. The condition of the vehicle and the speed at which it was traveling are also key factors under review.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Highway Patrol Division has taken over the investigation. Troopers are examining evidence from the crash scene, reviewing the events leading up to the pursuit, and assessing whether any additional factors played a role in the collision. Authorities emphasized that the incident is considered isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
As the investigation continues, the crash serves as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with high-speed pursuits and fleeing law enforcement. The Troy community is mourning the sudden loss of two lives, while officials urge drivers to follow lawful commands and prioritize safety to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
