Birmingham, AL (January 17, 2026) – A tragic crash involving a minivan and a train claimed the lives of two adults and injured three children in Birmingham on the morning of January 17. The incident occurred on 24th Street Southwest after the van reportedly drove around a lowered railroad crossing arm.
According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, 47-year-old Carolyn Elaine Berry and 36-year-old Aldereka Laqulla Ikes, both of Birmingham, were pronounced dead at the scene. The impact from the train was fatal, and emergency responders from Birmingham Fire and Rescue confirmed that four children were also inside the minivan at the time of the crash.
Three of the children were transported to Children’s of Alabama Hospital for treatment. Officials have not released further details about the severity of their injuries. The fourth child’s condition was not disclosed.
The crash caused major delays in the area as first responders worked to secure the scene and begin an investigation. Authorities confirmed that the vehicle bypassed the safety arm at the railroad crossing shortly before it was struck.
The incident remains under investigation by local authorities and railway officials. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected and hope for a full recovery for the injured children.
