Gadsden, AL (February 16, 2026) – A single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning claimed the life of an Elkmont woman and left two others hurt in Etowah County, according to state officials.
The collision occurred at 5:53 a.m. along Riverview Dr near Tillison Rd within the Gadsden city limits. Authorities with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said a pickup truck traveling in the area left the roadway, struck a fence, and continued into a nearby pond.
The driver, identified as 65-year-old Kathy N. Hamilton of Elkmont, was fatally injured in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two passengers in the vehicle, 30-year-old Hali B. Bridges of Elkmont and 29-year-old Chance B. Bridges of Athens, sustained injuries. Both were transported to Gadsden Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Key Details
- Location: Riverview Dr near Tillison Rd, Gadsden
- Reported: Sunday, February 15, at 5:53 a.m.
- Type: Single-vehicle crash
- Fatality: 1 confirmed
- Injured: 2 passengers hospitalized
- Investigation: Ongoing by ALEA Highway Patrol Division
What We Know So Far
- The pickup truck left the roadway before striking a fence and entering a pond.
- The driver was pronounced dead at the scene by responding authorities.
- Two passengers were taken to Gadsden Regional Medical Center for care.
- Troopers with ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division are leading the investigation.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The cause of the vehicle leaving the roadway.
- Whether weather or road conditions played a role.
- The current medical conditions of the injured passengers.
- Whether any additional factors contributed to the crash.
Local Context
Curved or elevated roadways near Riverview Dr and Tillison Rd can reduce sightlines for drivers, particularly during early morning hours. In Gadsden, injury accident scenes in these areas often require additional warning measures to alert approaching motorists and ensure safe access for emergency crews.
What to Do Next
- Move to a safe area if possible and check for injuries.
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from first responders.
- Write down the time and direction of travel.
- Monitor symptoms later and seek care if anything changes.
FAQ
Q: Why can injuries appear hours after a highway accident?
A: After a collision, adrenaline can temporarily mask pain. Symptoms such as stiffness, headaches, or internal injuries may not become noticeable until hours later, which is why medical evaluation and continued monitoring are important.
Q: Why are highway accidents often more severe?
A: Crashes on highways or higher-speed corridors tend to involve greater force due to speed. When a vehicle leaves the roadway or strikes fixed objects, the impact can result in more serious outcomes.
Q: What does it mean when an accident is under investigation?
A: An ongoing investigation means troopers are reviewing evidence, examining the scene, and gathering statements to determine how and why the crash occurred. Findings may take time as officials work to confirm details.
Source
Read the original coverage here: original report.
