Tuscaloosa Man Killed in Fiery Early-Morning Crash on I-20/59 in Greene County
GREENE COUNTY, AL – A tragic and fiery two-vehicle crash claimed the life of a Tuscaloosa man in the early hours of Sunday morning. Authorities have confirmed that 34-year-old Lorenzo Cherry died in the violent collision, which occurred around 3:30 a.m. just outside of Eutaw in Greene County.
According to Corporal Reginal King, spokesperson for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) in West Alabama, the crash happened on Interstate 20/59, a major route connecting Tuscaloosa to western parts of the state. Cherry was behind the wheel of a 2020 Honda Accord when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle collided with the rear end of a 2024 Ford F-350 pickup truck.
The impact of the crash was devastating. According to troopers, Cherry’s vehicle became engulfed in flames shortly after the collision, and he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency personnel arrived quickly, but the intensity of the fire and the severity of the wreck made rescue efforts impossible.
The driver of the Ford F-350, whose identity has not been released publicly, reportedly sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. Officials have not indicated whether any charges or citations are expected to follow as a result of the incident.
An Investigation Into What Went Wrong
The circumstances surrounding the deadly crash remain under investigation by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division. Troopers have not yet released information about what may have caused the collision — whether it involved excessive speed, distraction, mechanical failure, or other contributing factors. It is also not yet clear whether weather or visibility conditions may have played a role in the early-morning wreck.
Crash reconstruction specialists and investigators remained on the scene for several hours Sunday, working to gather evidence and clear the interstate for traffic. The tragic accident led to significant delays along that stretch of I-20/59 throughout the morning.
Remembering Lorenzo Cherry
News of Lorenzo Cherry’s death has left the Tuscaloosa community grieving. Friends and family describe Cherry as a dedicated father, loyal friend, and a man known for his big heart and infectious smile. His sudden and violent passing has left a deep void for those who knew him best.
“He always showed up for people,” one longtime friend shared in a social media tribute. “You could count on him to make you laugh, even when things were tough. I can’t believe he’s gone.”
Cherry was a graduate of Central High School in Tuscaloosa and had been working in logistics. He was also known for his love of cars, music, and spending time with his family. Loved ones are now organizing a candlelight vigil in his memory and have set up a fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses.
A Stark Reminder About Road Safety
Sunday’s deadly crash serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of high-speed collisions and the unpredictability of road travel—especially during early morning hours when fatigue, low visibility, and other risk factors can be heightened.
ALEA is urging motorists to remain alert, maintain safe following distances, and take precautions when driving long distances, especially on major highways like I-20/59, which is a frequent site of major collisions due to its heavy traffic volume and commercial truck activity.
Final Thoughts
As investigators continue to piece together what led to this deadly crash, the community mourns the loss of another young life taken too soon. Lorenzo Cherry’s memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, even as they struggle to process the heartbreak of his sudden and tragic passing.
Funeral arrangements for Cherry are expected to be announced in the coming days, and those wishing to pay their respects are encouraged to support his family during this difficult time.