MADISON, AL — 24-Year-Old Woman Killed in Tragic Early-Morning Crash on Alabama Highway 148
A tragic single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning, July 27, 2025, claimed the life of Zamaria T. Whetstone, a 24-year-old woman from Madison, Alabama. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the fatal accident occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Alabama Highway 148, just outside of Sylacauga in Talladega County.
Preliminary reports indicate that Whetstone was driving a 2016 Toyota Corolla eastbound on Highway 148 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle left the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned. Whetstone, who was reportedly not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel.
No other vehicles or passengers were involved in the incident, and weather conditions at the time of the crash were reported to be clear. Investigators are working to determine whether speed, fatigue, impairment, or a medical episode may have contributed to the crash. ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division is continuing to review evidence from the scene, including vehicle data, roadway marks, and eyewitness accounts, if any become available.
News of Whetstone’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the Madison community, where she was widely known and cherished by friends, coworkers, and family. A 2019 graduate of Bob Jones High School, Zamaria was described by those who knew her as intelligent, warm-hearted, and full of life. She had recently been working as a medical assistant while considering returning to school to pursue a degree in nursing—a career path she had long dreamed of.
“Zamaria had a way of lighting up any room she walked into,” said one family friend, Tameka Reynolds. “She was the kind of person who would do anything to help others, and she always had a smile on her face. This loss is devastating beyond words.”
Friends and family gathered at her family’s home in Madison throughout Sunday, embracing one another and sharing stories about Zamaria’s vibrant personality, her love for music and fashion, and her deep care for her younger siblings. Many expressed disbelief that someone so full of potential and promise could be gone so suddenly.
“She was just starting her life,” said her cousin, Marquise Jordan. “We were making plans for next month, talking about a trip to Atlanta. It doesn’t seem real.”
In a statement issued Sunday afternoon, ALEA reminded drivers of the importance of wearing seatbelts and exercising caution, especially during nighttime and early morning hours when visibility is reduced and fatigue can become a factor.
“One life lost is one too many,” the agency wrote. “We urge all motorists to buckle up, drive responsibly, and remain vigilant on Alabama’s roadways—especially during overnight travel.”
A makeshift memorial has been set up near the site of the crash on Highway 148, where friends and passersby have left flowers, candles, and handwritten notes in honor of Zamaria. Her family has also announced plans for a candlelight vigil later this week in Madison to remember her life and legacy.
Funeral arrangements are currently being coordinated and will be shared by the family in the coming days. Supporters have already begun organizing a fundraiser to help cover burial expenses and provide support to Zamaria’s grieving loved ones.
As ALEA continues to investigate the fatal crash, one thing is tragically certain: the life of Zamaria T. Whetstone, filled with compassion, ambition, and spirit, was taken far too soon. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her death serves as a painful reminder of how precious—and fragile—life truly is.