A 78-year-old woman lost her life and another individual remains in critical condition following a multi-vehicle collision in Huntsville Friday evening.
According to Huntsville Emergency Medical Services Inc. spokesperson Don Webster, emergency crews responded to the crash just after 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of Grizzard Road and Highway 53. Five people were transported to Huntsville Hospital Trauma Services for treatment. One of the victims remains in critical condition.
Authorities identified the woman who died as 78-year-old Frieda Martin Edwards of Ardmore.
Investigators say 35-year-old Deonte Marquez Hatchett, of Huntsville, was driving one of the vehicles involved. He was initially taken to the hospital for medical treatment. After being released, Hatchett was taken into custody and booked into Madison County Jail.
A preliminary investigation indicates Hatchett was attempting to turn left onto Grizzard Road and failed to yield to a vehicle traveling northbound on Jordan Lane. During the investigation, officers reported observing signs of possible impairment.
The case was presented to the Madison County District Attorney’s Office. Based on probable cause, Hatchett was charged with reckless, vehicle-related murder and two counts of first-degree assault.
The investigation remains ongoing.
