Two Killed, Four Injured in Fiery Five-Vehicle Crash on Highway 43 in Thomasville
THOMASVILLE, Ala. — A devastating multi-vehicle collision in Thomasville Tuesday afternoon claimed the lives of two individuals and left four others injured in what officials are calling one of the worst accidents in the city’s history.
The crash occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Highway 43 near Thomasville Regional Medical Center. According to Thomasville Police Chief Mitchell Stuckey, five vehicles were involved in the crash, including an 18-wheeler. Two of the vehicles caught fire as a result of the impact.
Clarke County Emergency Management confirmed that four people were transported to a local hospital with injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, and the District Attorney’s office are assisting Thomasville Police with the investigation.
Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day issued a heartfelt statement on Facebook, calling the incident “horrific” and urging the community to pray for the victims and their families.
“Tragically, two dear souls lost their lives today,” Day wrote. “Please stop and pray for their families and friends. There were four other injuries. Thank God it appears their injuries were non-life threatening… They have all been through a very traumatic incident.”
Mayor Day, a longtime firefighter with over 40 years of service, described the scene as one of the most harrowing he has ever witnessed.
“This is one of the worst accidents we have ever worked in the city limits during my career,” he said. “Each of our first responders need your prayers… This accident will forever be etched in their minds.”
He praised the emergency crews on scene for their professionalism and compassion in the face of unimaginable trauma.
Highway 43’s southbound lanes were temporarily closed while crews responded, with traffic being diverted around the wreck. As of Tuesday evening, the highway has reopened.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and officials have not yet released the names of the deceased, pending notification of next of kin.
Mayor Day concluded his statement with a personal reflection on the fragility of life, urging citizens to find spiritual grounding in the wake of tragedy.
“Two people lost their lives in an instant today… It could have been you… It could have been me.”
Authorities ask that anyone with information related to the crash contact the Thomasville Police Department as the investigation continues.
