Cullman County, AL (July 7, 2025) – A devastating head-on collision in Cullman County on Sunday afternoon claimed the life of a north Alabama woman and left five others injured, including four children.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 3:00 p.m. on July 6 along Cullman County Road 222 near County Road 351, just south of the Crane Hill community. Alabama State Troopers confirmed that 55-year-old Cynthia Ruth Baker Reeves of Hartselle was driving a Chevrolet Impala when it collided head-on with a Chevrolet Silverado.
According to Senior Trooper Gregory Corble, Reeves was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her vehicle sustained significant front-end damage as a result of the impact.
The driver of the Silverado, 39-year-old Shawn P. Bagwell of Cullman, suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham. Four children who were passengers in Bagwell’s truck—ages 14, 13, 11, and 8—were also injured and transported to a nearby hospital for medical care. Their current conditions have not been released.
The accident prompted a major emergency response, with medical personnel, law enforcement, and air transport units working quickly to assist the victims and secure the crash site. Road closures remained in place for several hours while troopers conducted on-scene investigations.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) continues to investigate the cause of the crash.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Cynthia Reeves and offer support and healing wishes to the injured, especially the children involved in this tragic event.
Deadly Head-On Collisions in Alabama
The tragic crash on Cullman County Road 222 is an all-too-familiar reminder of the severe outcomes that can occur on Alabama’s rural roads. Head-on collisions remain one of the most lethal crash types, often resulting in fatalities or life-altering injuries due to the force and direct nature of the impact.
According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, failure to maintain lane control and high travel speeds are frequent contributors to rural crashes—especially on two-lane roads like those in the Crane Hill area. The absence of barriers and sharp curves in the terrain can leave little room for error.
In this case, the death of Cynthia Reeves highlights the importance of seat belt use, particularly on county roads where speed and collision risk remain high. Meanwhile, the injuries suffered by Shawn Bagwell and the four young passengers are a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can be changed in the span of a few seconds.
For the families involved, the emotional and physical recovery process will likely take months, if not years. Survivors often face intensive medical treatment, psychological trauma, and the burden of navigating complex insurance and legal matters. That’s why it’s vital for crash victims and their loved ones to have access to trusted resources and guidance during their recovery.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by a serious collision like the one in Cullman County, know that you do not have to face the aftermath alone.
Following a fatal or serious crash, clarity and support can make all the difference. Local Accident Reports is committed to helping families connect with the medical care, recovery tools, and local services they need. Let us be your guide through this difficult time—contact us today to learn how we can assist.
