Russell County, AL (April 2, 2025) – A tragic multi-vehicle accident claimed the life of a Phenix City woman and left two others injured early Monday morning on U.S. Highway 80 near the 208-mile marker, approximately three miles west of Phenix City.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the fatal crash occurred around 7:50 a.m. on March 31. The incident involved three vehicles: a 2016 Hyundai Sonata, a 2013 Ford F-350 pickup, and a 2015 Honda Accord.
Investigators reported that 51-year-old Tonya R. McGraw of Phenix City was driving the Hyundai Sonata when it collided head-on with the Ford F-350 driven by William S. Slappy, 56, of Hamilton, GA. Before striking the Sonata, Slappy’s Ford had also collided with a Honda Accord operated by 34-year-old Rodriguez E. Thomas of Fort Mitchell.
First responders arrived quickly, but McGraw sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Emergency medical services transported both Slappy and Thomas to Piedmont Midtown Medical Center in Columbus for treatment of their injuries.
Troopers with ALEA are continuing to investigate the crash to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Tonya McGraw and offer our thoughts for a swift and full recovery to those injured.
Fatal Head-On Collisions in Alabama
Monday morning’s heartbreaking crash on US-80 in Russell County is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from head-on collisions—especially along major highway routes. The loss of Tonya McGraw and the injuries sustained by others involved highlight just how quickly tragedy can unfold in the face of unexpected roadway events.
U.S. Highway 80 serves as a key east-west corridor across central Alabama, and rural stretches like the one near Phenix City are known for higher-speed travel, limited visibility, and fewer protective barriers. These factors often contribute to severe crashes, especially those involving lane departures or unexpected obstructions.
In this case, the initial impact between the Ford F-350 and the Honda Accord likely caused a chain reaction that left little time for corrective action before the head-on collision with the Hyundai Sonata. Head-on crashes are among the most deadly types of collisions due to the high force of impact, especially when larger vehicles like pickups are involved.
Victims of such crashes—and their families—often face overwhelming emotional trauma, long-term recovery needs, and difficult decisions about legal and financial steps. When fatalities occur, the aftermath includes not just grief, but also the complexities of insurance claims, investigative procedures, and potential wrongful death considerations.
If your family has been affected by a serious or fatal crash, Local Accident Reports can help you get the answers and support you need. We provide timely updates, guidance, and access to professionals who understand the legal and emotional complexities of your situation. Reach out to us today to take the first step toward clarity, closure, and compassionate support.