Two women lost their lives in a devastating head-on collision Thursday evening in Autauga County, Alabama. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has identified the victims as 78-year-old Carolyn C. Cason of Prattville and 30-year-old Alyssa M. Taylor of Selma.
The fatal crash occurred around 7:41 p.m. on Alabama Highway 14, approximately nine miles west of Prattville. According to ALEA spokesperson Lt. Jeremy Burkett, Cason was driving a Lincoln Aviator SUV when it collided head-on with Taylor’s Ford Fusion. The circumstances that led to the collision remain under investigation.
The impact was so severe that both vehicles veered off the roadway and were quickly engulfed in flames. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the incident was reported, but tragically, both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene due to the injuries sustained in the crash and the resulting fire.
The violent nature of the collision and subsequent fire left little chance for survival, leaving both the Prattville and Selma communities in shock. The loss of Cason and Taylor has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and local residents who are now mourning the sudden tragedy.
ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division is leading the ongoing investigation. Authorities are working to determine whether speed, weather, driver impairment, or other factors played a role in the collision. Investigators are expected to review evidence from the crash site, collect witness statements, and examine any available dashcam or surveillance footage.
As part of the investigation, autopsy and toxicology reports will be considered to help determine if any medical or substance-related issues contributed to the accident. The agency has yet to release additional information pending the outcome of the full investigation.
Officials are reminding drivers to remain vigilant while behind the wheel, particularly on rural highways like Alabama 14, where visibility and road conditions can quickly change. The tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of cautious and attentive driving at all times.
The loss of Carolyn C. Cason and Alyssa M. Taylor is deeply felt across Autauga County, and their loved ones are left grappling with the pain of their untimely passing.