JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL — A devastating single-vehicle crash in northern Jefferson County early Sunday morning, July 20, 2025, claimed the lives of two teenagers and left six others injured, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit Corner community.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to the crash at approximately 2:58 a.m. on Mt. Olive Road near Partridge Loop. A pickup truck carrying eight teenagers veered off the roadway and struck a utility pole. Two passengers, an 18-year-old male and a 19-year-old male, were pronounced dead at the scene at 3:24 a.m. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has not yet publicly identified the victims, pending notification of their families.
The six other occupants—one male and five females, ranging in age from 16 to 19—were transported to UAB Hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. The preliminary investigation indicates the truck lost control, leading to the collision with the utility pole. Authorities have not released additional details about the cause of the crash, which remains under investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff’s office at 205-325-1450.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and support across the community. New Bethel Baptist Church posted on Facebook, “Please join us in prayer for the families of the young people from Corner who were tragically killed and injured in an automobile accident early this morning. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this immense loss. May God’s comfort and peace surround them during this incredibly difficult time.”
HighPoint Community Church opened its sanctuary Sunday evening for a time of prayer, welcoming the community to mourn and reflect together. Pastor Blake Wingo emphasized the close-knit nature of the Corner community, stating, “We all know each other’s children, we feed each other’s children, we take care of each other’s children. When something happens in a community like Corner, you can’t help but want to rally around one another and bring each other together.”
Gardendale Mayor Stan Hogeland also shared his condolences, writing, “My heart breaks for the families of the kids and the entire Corner community. Please pray for all involved. I can’t imagine the pain.”
As the Corner community grapples with this profound loss, grief counseling and support services are expected to be made available to students, families, and residents in the coming days. The investigation into the crash continues as the community mourns the loss of two young lives and prays for the recovery of those injured.