MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities are investigating the death of a 38-year-old woman who was found in a ditch along Apple Grove Road early Saturday morning. The discovery has raised questions about what led to her death as state investigators work to determine whether a vehicle strike was involved.
According to Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn, the woman was identified as Ashley Critchley, 38. She was found during the early morning hours on Saturday, January 17, in a ditch near Apple Grove Road. Emergency responders were called to the scene after the discovery was reported, prompting an immediate response from local authorities.
Officials said Critchley was pronounced dead after being located, though the exact time of death has not been released. The circumstances surrounding how she ended up in the ditch remain unclear. Authorities have not said who discovered her or how long she may have been there before she was found.
The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office stated that preliminary information suggests Critchley may have been struck by a vehicle. However, investigators emphasized that this has not yet been confirmed and that further examination is needed. No vehicle has been identified, and it is not known whether the incident may involve a hit-and-run.
Due to the nature of the case, the investigation has been turned over to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). State troopers and investigators are working to piece together the events leading up to Critchley’s death. This includes examining the roadway, reviewing any available evidence from the scene, and determining whether witnesses or surveillance footage may exist in the area.
Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation, including whether foul play is suspected or if charges could be filed. Officials said the case remains active and ongoing, and more information will be shared once the investigation progresses. As the community mourns the loss, law enforcement officials are asking for patience as they continue working to determine exactly what happened to Ashley Critchley and how her life was tragically cut short.
