CULLMAN, Ala. – A devastating two-vehicle crash in Cullman County has claimed the life of a Hartselle woman and left five others injured, including four children, in what authorities are calling a tragic and sobering reminder of the dangers on Alabama’s rural roads.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, on County Road 222 near County Road 351, just south of Crane Hill. According to Alabama State Troopers, 55-year-old Cynthia Ruth Baker Reeves, a resident of Hartselle, was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Impala when her vehicle collided head-on with a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Shawn P. Bagwell, 39, of Cullman.
Troopers reported that Reeves was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and suffered fatal injuries. She was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency responders. Her sudden and tragic death has left her family, friends, and hometown community in mourning.
The driver of the Silverado, Shawn Bagwell, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for emergency treatment. The Silverado was also carrying four young passengers—ages 14, 13, 11, and 8—who were all injured in the crash. They were transported by ambulance to a local hospital, and while their exact conditions have not been released, they are reported to be receiving medical care.
First responders from multiple agencies, including Cullman County emergency services and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division, rushed to the scene following the collision. The impact of the crash caused severe damage to both vehicles, with wreckage and debris scattered across the roadway. Investigators remained at the scene for several hours to document the accident and begin the process of reconstructing how it occurred.
The crash site is located approximately one mile south of Crane Hill, in a rural stretch of road where traffic is often fast-moving and visibility can be limited. Local residents say the winding, hilly nature of County Road 222 has contributed to several previous incidents, and some are now calling for a renewed focus on safety improvements.
As news of the crash spread, an outpouring of grief was felt across both Hartselle and Cullman communities. Cynthia Reeves, remembered as a kind-hearted woman with a strong connection to her family and church, is being mourned by those who knew her best. Many expressed shock and sadness at the news of her passing, describing her as someone who was always willing to lend a hand or offer a word of encouragement.
Meanwhile, loved ones and neighbors are rallying around the Bagwell family, offering prayers and support for the recovery of Shawn and the four children. Community members are also urging drivers to remain vigilant on the roads and to always wear seat belts, as simple decisions can mean the difference between life and death.
At this time, the crash remains under active investigation by the ALEA Highway Patrol Division, and authorities have not yet confirmed what led to the collision. Whether speed, distraction, or another factor played a role is still being determined.
No further information is available at this time, but officials are expected to release updates as more is learned about the circumstances surrounding the crash.
If you have information related to this crash or witnessed events in the area of County Road 222 and 351 near the time of the incident, please contact ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by this heartbreaking event.