The Chilton County community is in deep sadness after a devastating head-on crash on U.S. 82 near Maplesville took the lives of two local men early Monday morning. The catastrophic collision, involving a Chevrolet Camaro and a pickup truck, happened around 5:35 a.m. and has shocked the entire region. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is leading the investigation into the cause of this severe accident.
The victims were identified as the drivers of the two vehicles: James Owens Jr., 20, from Tuscaloosa, who was driving the Camaro, and Justin Carlee, 42, a resident of Maplesville, who was driving the pickup truck. Emergency teams quickly arrived but sadly confirmed that both drivers had died from the violent crash. Authorities confirmed that no other people were injured in the tragic incident.
State troopers noted that the crash was extremely severe. Both vehicles were badly damaged from the impact, and pieces of the wreckage were scattered across the highway. Because of this, the section of the highway was temporarily closed to allow first responders and investigators to work safely and clear the road. Drivers in the area faced delays and were asked to use caution.
ALEA has started a full investigation to figure out exactly what caused the collision. Troopers are looking at everything, including the condition of the road, how fast the vehicles were going, and checking for any mechanical problems or driver issues. Officials have not yet said whether factors like bad weather or poor visibility played a role, and they are asking anyone who saw the crash to call ALEA to help with their review.
The news has brought great shock to the community, as both James Owens Jr. and Justin Carlee were well-known locally. Their families and friends are mourning this sudden and terrible loss. Local police and authorities are offering support and counseling to the families and community members who have been affected by this tragedy.
This sad event is a strong warning about the need for safety on the roads. State troopers stress that traffic safety must be the priority. They urge all drivers to slow down, stay alert, and be careful, especially when driving early in the morning or on major highways. ALEA will provide updates on the investigation as they learn more about the cause of this terrible crash.
