Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash Claims Four Young Lives on US-80 Near Selma, Alabama

Modified Date: 
Sat, 02/01/2025 - 8:01am
Accident Date: 
Thursday, January 30, 2025

Four people killed in single-car crash in Dallas County

The crash happened just before 6:30 last night on U.S. Highway 80, approximately 10 miles east of Selma.

4 teens killed in Dallas County crash

ALEA reports the victims include the 18-year-old driver, who was from Wetumpka, and a 17-year-old from Selma. They were not named.

 

In a devastating incident that occurred on U.S. Highway 80 approximately 10 miles east of Selma, Dallas County, four young individuals lost their lives in a single-vehicle crash just before 6:30 PM yesterday. According to Alabama State Troopers, an 18-year-old driver from Wetumpka lost control of the vehicle, which subsequently left the roadway and collided with a tree. The driver, along with three passengers - a 17-year-old from Selma, 19-year-old Isaiah McDade of Pike Road, and 19-year-old Tyler Jones of Montgomery - were pronounced dead at the scene. A fifth passenger, 19-year-old Deneco Smith of Montgomery, sustained injuries and was initially transported to Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma before being transferred to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for advanced care. State Troopers reported that none of the vehicle occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

Location and Infrastructure

U.S. Highway 80, also known as the Selma to Montgomery Historic Trail, is a major east-west highway that connects Selma to Montgomery through Dallas County. This stretch of highway, located approximately 10 miles east of Selma, is characterized by rural two-lane sections with periodic passing zones. The area where the crash occurred is situated in a region known for its historical significance, being part of the route of the famous 1965 Voting Rights March. The highway typically experiences moderate traffic flow, with both local and interstate travelers, and serves as a crucial transportation artery for communities between Selma and Montgomery. The road features standard highway markings, reflective signs, and periodic emergency shoulders.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, surviving family members of deceased accident victims may have grounds for wrongful death claims, which must be filed within two years of the date of death. Alabama follows a pure contributory negligence system, which can significantly impact liability determinations and potential compensation. In cases involving multiple fatalities, complex insurance considerations arise, including potential claims against the driver's insurance policy and possible underinsured motorist coverage. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages as prescribed by Alabama law. Additionally, injured survivors may have separate claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, subject to different statutory requirements and limitations.

Related Resources

  • Emergency Services:
    • Dallas County Emergency Management Agency
    • Vaughan Regional Medical Center Emergency Department
    • UAB Hospital Trauma Center
  • Traffic Safety Resources:
    • Alabama Department of Transportation Safety Office
    • Alabama Teen Safe Driving Coalition
    • Drive Safe Alabama Initiative
  • Support Services:
    • Alabama Crime Victims' Compensation Commission
    • ALEA Victim Service Officers
    • Local grief counseling services through Dallas County Mental Health Services
  • Legal References:
    • Alabama Code § 32-5A (Rules of the Road)
    • Alabama Wrongful Death Statute
    • Alabama Department of Insurance Consumer Services Division
Type: Car Accident
People Involved: 
Isaiah McDade
Tyler Jones
Deneco Smith
Roadway: 
US-80
City: 
Selma, AL