TRUSSVILLE, Ala. — A tragic late-night crash on Interstate 59 has claimed the life of a 27-year-old man from Gadsden, leaving family, friends, and the community in mourning. The devastating collision, which involved a passenger vehicle and a tractor-trailer, occurred Monday night in Jefferson County and has since raised concerns about highway safety.

According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, the victim has been identified as Saleh Ali Mohamed Muflehi, 27. Authorities said he was the driver and sole occupant of a 2016 Kia Soul involved in a two-vehicle crash on I-59 northbound near Chalkville Road in the Trussville area. The incident happened at approximately 10:05 p.m., drawing a swift response from emergency personnel.

Alabama State Trooper Jaylon James reported that Muflehi’s vehicle struck the rear of a 2021 Peterbilt 567 tractor-trailer. The truck was being driven by 62-year-old Vernon J. Abernathy of Cullman. While the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, officials say the investigation is ongoing as they work to determine what led to the collision.

Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene and provided aid before transporting Muflehi to UAB Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff to save his life, he later died from his injuries. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that he was pronounced dead at 4:02 a.m. Tuesday, several hours after the crash.

The incident has left many in the community searching for answers as authorities continue to piece together the events leading up to the crash. Investigators have not yet said whether factors such as speed, road conditions, or visibility played a role, but they are expected to release more information as the case develops.

As loved ones grieve the sudden loss, Muflehi is being remembered for the life he lived and the people he touched. His passing serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly tragedy can occur on the road, turning an ordinary night into a heartbreaking loss that will not be forgotten.