A tragic two-vehicle crash in Lauderdale County, Alabama Monday afternoon claimed the life of a 38-year-old Florence woman, leaving her family and the community grieving. The violent collision also injured several others, including children, and is currently under investigation by state authorities.

According to media reports and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the crash occurred around 3:01 p.m. on March 9, 2026, along Alabama Highway 17 near the 338-mile marker, approximately half a mile south of St. Florian, Alabama. Emergency responders were called to the scene after reports of a head-on collision involving two vehicles.

Authorities say the victim, Brittney D. Ellis, was driving a 2012 Nissan Rogue when her vehicle collided head-on with a 2019 Ford Explorer driven by 76-year-old Carolyn Mauldon of Iron City, Tennessee. The force of the impact left Ellis with severe injuries, and she was pronounced dead at the scene by the Lauderdale County coroner.

Mauldon, the driver of the Ford Explorer, sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to North Alabama Medical Center for treatment. Police have not released the extent of her injuries but said she was conscious and receiving care.

The Nissan Rogue also carried three young passengers—a 16-year-old, a 10-year-old, and a 2-year-old—who were injured in the crash. They were taken to a local hospital for treatment, though officials have not yet disclosed the severity of their injuries. Authorities emphasized that the victims’ families are being kept updated as the investigation continues.

Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Highway Patrol Division are investigating the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports note that Ellis was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision. Officials are working to determine how the accident occurred and whether any charges may result. The Lauderdale County community is mourning the loss of Ellis while hoping for the recovery of those injured in this tragic accident.