Authorities are investigating a tragic early-morning crash on Interstate 20 that claimed the life of an 18-year-old St. Clair County resident on Saturday. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim, identified as Jagger Thorne Cox of Ragland, died after his disabled vehicle was struck along the westbound lanes of the interstate. The news has left the Ragland community heartbroken, as friends and family mourn the loss of a young man whose life was just beginning.
According to officials, the incident occurred around 4:15 a.m. on November 22 near mile marker 131, close to Brussels Road and Georgia Road. Cox’s vehicle had become disabled on the side of I-20 West, and he was reportedly outside the vehicle when another car struck it. The impact caused devastating injuries, and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene shortly afterward. Despite their efforts, Cox was pronounced dead at 5:28 a.m.
The Birmingham Police Department has taken charge of the investigation, though details remain limited. Authorities have not yet released information about the driver of the vehicle that struck Cox’s car or any potential contributing factors, such as road conditions or driver impairment. Investigators will likely examine visibility at the time of the collision, the positioning of the disabled vehicle, and whether hazard lights or other warnings were in use.
Crashes involving disabled vehicles remain a significant concern on Alabama’s highways. Safety officials frequently remind drivers to use extreme caution when stopped on the roadside, emphasizing the dangers posed by high-speed traffic—particularly during dark, early-morning hours. Unfortunately, even with precautionary steps, the combination of low visibility and fast-moving vehicles can create a deadly situation in seconds.
Neighbors and friends of Cox have expressed shock and sorrow, remembering him as a kind and promising young man. His death marks yet another tragic example of how quickly life can change on the road. Local residents say the area near mile marker 131 can be especially dangerous due to limited lighting and heavy interstate travel, especially during pre-dawn hours when drivers may be fatigued.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not released any further information. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant details to come forward. For now, the community joins Cox’s family in mourning a life lost far too soon and hopes the investigation will provide clarity in the days ahead.
