State Troopers Identify Victim in Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash in Lauderdale County
LAUDERDALE COUNTY, AL – A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed the life of a Lauderdale County man Monday afternoon, prompting an ongoing investigation by Alabama State Troopers. The wreck occurred shortly before 2:00 p.m. on Highway 43 near mile marker 331, approximately four miles north of Killen.
Authorities have identified the victim as Jacky T. Thigpen, 33, who was critically injured in the crash and later died at North Alabama Medical Center in Florence.
Details of the Crash
According to preliminary reports from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Thigpen was driving a 2003 Dodge Neon when the vehicle left the roadway, struck a ditch, and then collided with a tree. Investigators say the impact of the crash was severe, and Thigpen was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the incident.
Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene and transported Thigpen to North Alabama Medical Center for treatment of life-threatening injuries, but despite the efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Investigation Underway
Alabama State Troopers continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the wreck. At this time, the cause of the crash remains undetermined, and officials are working to piece together the moments leading up to the fatal incident. Factors such as speed, road conditions, driver behavior, and mechanical failure will all be evaluated as part of the comprehensive accident review.
Crash reconstruction specialists are also examining the vehicle and the scene to determine why Thigpen’s vehicle veered off the road. As of now, no other vehicles appear to have been involved, and no passengers were in the car at the time of the crash.
Seat Belt Reminder from Authorities
In the aftermath of the wreck, ALEA officials have once again urged the public to wear seat belts at all times while driving or riding in a vehicle. Troopers emphasized that the failure to wear a seat belt significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision.
“This tragic incident is another reminder of how important seat belt use is,” an ALEA spokesperson said. “It only takes a second to buckle up, and it can mean the difference between life and death.”
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly half of all people killed in motor vehicle crashes in the United States each year are not wearing seat belts.
Community Reacts to Tragic Loss
The news of Thigpen’s death has left the local community mourning. Friends and family have described him as a kind and hardworking individual. Tributes and condolences have begun appearing on social media, with many expressing shock and sadness over the sudden and tragic nature of the accident.
Residents of Killen and the surrounding areas have also expressed concern about the safety of Highway 43, a heavily traveled stretch of road that has seen its share of serious accidents in recent years. While it is too early to determine if road conditions played a role in this crash, some community members are calling for increased traffic safety measures along that portion of the highway.
Next Steps
As the investigation progresses, Alabama State Troopers will release additional information as it becomes available. The full accident report may take days or weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the investigation.
Authorities are asking that anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information that could aid in the investigation contact ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division.
In Summary:
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Date of Incident: Monday, May 12, 2025
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Time: Just before 2:00 p.m.
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Location: Highway 43 near mile marker 331, north of Killen, AL
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Victim: Jacky T. Thigpen, 33, of Lauderdale County
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Vehicle: 2003 Dodge Neon
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Details: Vehicle left the road, struck a ditch and a tree
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Seat Belt Use: Not wearing a seat belt
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Outcome: Transported to North Alabama Medical Center, pronounced dead
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Investigation Status: Ongoing by Alabama State Troopers
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Jacky T. Thigpen. They also continue to stress the critical importance of seat belt safety and safe driving practices at all times.
For more information or to provide tips related to the crash, contact ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division.