Gordon, AL (May 13, 2025) – A devastating collision involving a semi-truck and an SUV claimed the lives of three individuals Monday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 84 East and Highway 95 in Gordon, near the Alabama–Georgia border. The crash occurred around 12:16 p.m. and prompted a massive emergency response across Houston County.
According to officials, the SUV was traveling southbound on Highway 95 when it came to a stop at the intersection’s stop sign. Witnesses and investigators report that the SUV then proceeded into the highway median without slowing down, pulling directly into the path of an eastbound semi-truck hauling a trailer.
The semi-truck driver, having seen the SUV at the stop sign, attempted to avoid a collision by moving into the right-hand lane. Tragically, the SUV did not stop and was struck on the side by the truck. The impact was catastrophic, crushing the SUV and resulting in the immediate deaths of all three occupants inside.
Houston County Coroner Robert Byrd confirmed the identities of the deceased: David Waller, 71, Diane Waller, 65, and Carrie Stone, 49.
All three victims were from central Florida and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Multiple agencies responded to the crash, including Gordon, Pansey, and Ashford Volunteer Fire Departments, Ashford Rescue, Houston County Sheriff’s Office, and Alabama State Troopers (ALEA). Due to the severity of the wreck and the weather conditions—including heavy rainfall—extensive extrication efforts were required to recover the victims.
The Dothan Fire Department was also requested for mutual aid, and Knight’s Wrecker service assisted in the extrication using heavy equipment. ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation conducted aerial drone footage to aid in the crash reconstruction. The investigation is being led by ALEA Trooper Spencer Adkinson.
The semi-truck, which struck the SUV, came to a stop approximately 80 feet after impact. Authorities confirmed the truck driver made every possible effort to avoid the crash, but the SUV’s movement left no opportunity for evasion.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of David and Diane Waller and Carrie Stone. This heartbreaking loss is felt throughout both their home community in Florida and by first responders and residents here in Alabama.
Highway Crossover Collisions in Rural Alabama
Crashes at rural highway intersections, like the one at Hwy 84 and Hwy 95 in Gordon, are among the deadliest types of collisions, especially when involving high-speed semis and passenger vehicles. Medians and stop-controlled intersections in these areas require drivers to cross multiple lanes of fast-moving traffic, leaving little room for error.
In this case, investigators noted that the SUV entered the path of the semi-truck without slowing down, leading to a high-impact collision directly into the vehicle’s doors. Such T-bone crashes at highway speeds are often fatal, particularly for side-impacted occupants.
These accidents are stark reminders of how critical intersection awareness, cautious decision-making, and weather-adjusted driving can be. While exact causes are still under investigation, driver misjudgment, visibility issues, and environmental conditions may have contributed.
Rural roads often lack traffic signals or advanced warning systems, placing more responsibility on drivers to carefully assess cross-traffic before proceeding. For families affected by such tragic crashes, the aftermath includes not only immense grief but also legal and logistical challenges.
If your family has experienced the devastating loss of a loved one in a highway crash, compassionate support is available.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to helping families find the information and resources they need during difficult times. From grief counseling referrals to legal guidance and community support, contact us today to learn how we can assist you in the wake of a tragic accident.