BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A tragic crash involving a freight train claimed the lives of two women early Friday morning in southwest Birmingham, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. The deadly incident happened while several people, including children, were inside a minivan, leaving the community shaken and authorities investigating how it occurred.
The victims were identified as 47-year-old Carolyn Elaine Berry and 36-year-old Aldereka Laqulla Ikes, both residents of Birmingham. Officials confirmed that both women were occupants of the minivan at the time of the crash. Their deaths mark a devastating loss for their families and loved ones.
The crash occurred at approximately 1:46 a.m. in the 1000 block of 24th Street SW. According to investigators, the minivan was carrying six people total, including two adults and four juveniles, when it approached a railroad crossing. Authorities say the vehicle drove around a railroad crossing arm that was lowered before it was struck by an oncoming freight train.
The impact of the collision caused severe damage to the minivan. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but Carolyn Elaine Berry was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:44 a.m. The force of the crash left little chance for survival, officials said.
Aldereka Laqulla Ikes was transported to UAB Hospital for emergency treatment. Despite efforts by medical staff, she was pronounced dead at 2:34 a.m. The conditions of the four juveniles who were also inside the minivan have not been released, and authorities have not provided details about any injuries they may have sustained.
The Birmingham Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials have not said whether speed, visibility, or other factors played a role. No additional information has been released at this time as investigators continue their work. Authorities are reminding drivers to always obey railroad crossing signals, stressing that trains cannot stop quickly and that ignoring crossing arms can have deadly consequences.
