A heartbreaking Sunday afternoon crash in Shelby County has claimed the life of 16-year-old William James “James” Clowdus, leaving his family, friends, and the wider community in deep mourning. The tragic collision also left several others injured, including another teenager, in what authorities describe as a devastating roadway incident.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Shelby County Coroner’s Office, the crash happened around 2:10 p.m. along Alabama 119 near the 26-mile marker, just south of Hoover. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched after reports of a serious multi-vehicle collision in the area.
Investigators say Clowdus was driving a 2013 Honda Civic when it collided with a Lexus RX SUV driven by 64-year-old Michael C. Rice of Birmingham. The impact of the crash caused the Honda Civic to leave the roadway, where it struck a fence and then a nearby greenhouse, creating a chaotic and dangerous scene.
Authorities confirmed that Clowdus was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected from the vehicle upon impact. Despite the rapid response from emergency crews, the 16-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. His sudden death has left loved ones and the community struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a young life.
A 14-year-old passenger in the Honda Civic was also injured in the crash and transported to a local hospital. Officials have not yet released details on the teen’s condition. The driver of the Lexus, Michael Rice, along with his passenger, 67-year-old Dawn M. Rice, were also injured and taken to UAB Hospital for medical treatment.
The scene caused major traffic delays as law enforcement officers worked to investigate and clear the wreckage from the roadway. At this time, officials have not confirmed whether speed, impairment, or other factors played a role in the collision. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency continue to gather evidence and review the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
