A tragic single-vehicle crash late Tuesday night on Interstate 59 in Trussville claimed the lives of two out-of-state men, authorities confirmed. The deadly wreck occurred just before midnight near Deerfoot Parkway, leaving families in two states grieving and investigators searching for answers.
According to officials, the crash happened at approximately 11:28 p.m. on February 25 along Interstate 59 South. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a serious accident. When crews arrived, they found a single vehicle involved in the crash with four occupants inside. The impact was severe, and two of the passengers suffered fatal injuries.
Authorities identified the victims as 36-year-old Kaleb Michael Bulva of Beckley and 31-year-old Michael Tyler Smith of Kings Mountain. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene at 12:07 a.m. on February 26. Officials have not yet released details about the condition of the other two occupants who were inside the vehicle at the time of the wreck.
The stretch of Interstate 59 near Deerfoot Parkway is a heavily traveled route connecting communities throughout the region. Late-night crashes can be especially dangerous due to reduced visibility and higher travel speeds. Authorities have not said what factors may have contributed to the collision, including whether speed, road conditions, or other circumstances played a role.
The investigation is being handled by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency State Troopers. Investigators are working to determine exactly what led to the single-vehicle crash and whether any additional details will be released in the coming days. It is standard procedure for troopers to reconstruct the scene and examine all available evidence.
As news of the tragedy spreads, loved ones in West Virginia and North Carolina are left mourning the sudden loss. The deaths of Bulva and Smith serve as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can change on the roadway. Authorities continue to urge drivers to exercise caution, especially during nighttime travel, as the investigation into this devastating crash continues.
