Pike County, AL (September 22, 2025) – A heartbreaking two-vehicle crash early Saturday morning claimed the lives of two young children and left multiple others injured in Pike County, Alabama. The fatal collision occurred around 5:20 AM on September 20, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
Authorities stated that the crash involved a 2018 Nissan Kicks and a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, which was being driven by a 16-year-old. The Nissan was carrying several passengers at the time of the crash. Tragically, two young passengers in the Nissan—a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old—suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Nissan, 37-year-old Charles R. Holmes Jr. of Geneva, sustained injuries and was transported to Troy Regional Medical Center. Two other children, ages 6 and 10, who were also in the Nissan, were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
The 16-year-old driver of the Chevrolet has not been identified, and it is unclear whether any charges or citations are expected. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash.
Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and all those injured in this tragic event.
Child Passenger Safety and Rural Road Risks
Rural roads like those found throughout Pike County can be deceptively dangerous, especially during early morning hours when visibility is low. Head-on and side-impact collisions are more common on two-lane highways, and even restrained children can suffer severe injuries in high-impact crashes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children in the United States. Inadequate child restraints, lack of booster seats, and failure to secure young passengers properly often contribute to fatal outcomes.
This tragedy underscores the importance of proper child safety seat use and cautious driving at all times, particularly during pre-dawn hours. Parents and guardians are encouraged to have car seats inspected regularly and ensure that all passengers are appropriately restrained based on age and size.
Those impacted by fatal or injury crashes often require long-term support, from medical care to grief counseling and legal representation.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.