CLAY COUNTY, AL — A devastating single-vehicle crash in the early hours of Sunday, July 27, 2025, claimed the life of Zamaria T. Whetstone, a 24-year-old woman from Madison, Alabama. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. on Alabama Highway 148, approximately five miles from Sylacauga, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
Whetstone was driving a Hyundai Sonata near the 10-mile marker when her vehicle veered off the roadway and collided with a tree. The force of the impact was fatal, and she was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. No other vehicles were involved, and no additional injuries were reported.
The crash occurred on a rural stretch of Highway 148, a road known for its challenging conditions, particularly during early morning hours when visibility is low. While the exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division is actively examining factors such as road conditions, vehicle data, and potential environmental influences. Authorities have not yet released information regarding whether speed, impairment, or mechanical issues played a role.
ALEA is urging anyone with information about the crash or who may have been in the area at the time to contact their office to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of Zamaria Whetstone has deeply affected the Madison community, where she was cherished by friends and family. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, and the community mourns the loss of a vibrant young woman whose life was cut tragically short.
Funeral arrangements have not been publicly announced at this time, and the Whetstone family has not issued a formal statement. ALEA has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation and may provide public safety recommendations to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of driving on rural highways, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. It underscores the importance of heightened awareness and caution for all motorists to ensure safer roads for everyone.