MOBILE, Ala. — Authorities in Mobile have identified the victim of a tragic early-morning traffic accident that claimed the life of a 21-year-old man on Monday, February 23, 2026. The incident occurred before sunrise and has left family members and the local community mourning the sudden loss.
According to the Mobile Police Department, officers were dispatched around 3:15 a.m. to the intersection of Old Shell Road and Cosgrove Drive. When police arrived at the scene, they found Carlos Funez deceased in the westbound lane of Old Shell Road. Emergency responders quickly assessed the situation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary information from investigators indicates that Funez had been standing outside his vehicle with its hazard lights activated when he was struck by another westbound vehicle. Authorities have not yet explained why his vehicle was stopped at that location during the early morning hours. The exact sequence of events leading up to the collision remains under review.
Police confirmed that the driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities. At this time, officials have not released any information regarding possible charges or whether factors such as speed, impairment, or poor visibility played a role in the crash. Detectives continue to gather evidence and speak with witnesses as part of the ongoing investigation.
The crash temporarily impacted traffic along Old Shell Road while officers examined the scene. Law enforcement personnel worked for several hours documenting the area, measuring distances, and collecting information necessary to reconstruct the accident. Drivers in the area experienced delays as investigators ensured the roadway was safe before reopening it.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Officials have not announced when additional details may be released. As the Mobile community reflects on the loss of a young life, police are reminding motorists to exercise caution, especially during late-night and early-morning hours when visibility is limited and road conditions can be more challenging.
