Jessica Fortenberry Obituary, Death; Authorities – A tragic single-vehicle crash in Chilton County on Monday morning resulted in the death of a local woman, authorities reported. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. on Nov. 3, according to Capt. Jeremy Burkett, spokesperson for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
The victim, 54-year-old Jessica Fortenberry of Billingsley, was a passenger in a 2011 Chrysler Town and Country van when the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree. Investigators confirmed that Fortenberry was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, which contributed to her being ejected from the vehicle. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The driver of the van, 57-year-old Jaynell M. Peters of Thorsby, sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to University of Birmingham Hospital for treatment. Authorities have not provided further details about the severity of Peters’ injuries but confirmed that medical personnel are providing care.
The crash took place on Chilton County 37 near Chilton County 76, approximately two miles southwest of Clanton. Law enforcement officials responded promptly to the scene and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that the vehicle leaving the roadway and striking a tree was the primary cause of the incident.
Authorities have emphasized the critical importance of wearing seat belts, noting that safety restraints significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries in vehicle accidents. In this case, officials believe that Fortenberry’s lack of a seat belt contributed to the severity of her injuries and ultimately her death.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is continuing its investigation to determine additional factors that may have contributed to the crash, such as road conditions, vehicle speed, and potential mechanical issues. Officers are also collecting evidence and documenting the scene to support a thorough understanding of the events that led to the accident.
Local residents expressed shock and sadness following news of the crash. Fortenberry was remembered by neighbors and community members as a long-time resident of Billingsley who had strong ties to the area. Many expressed condolences to the families affected and highlighted the suddenness of the incident as particularly tragic.
Traffic on the road was temporarily impacted while authorities conducted their initial investigation, including evidence collection and documentation of the crash site. Officials urged drivers in the area to exercise caution, particularly during early morning hours when visibility can be limited, and to remain attentive to road conditions to help prevent similar accidents.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has not released additional details about the cause of the crash or whether any other factors, such as impairment or distractions, played a role. Authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.
In summary, a single-vehicle crash early Monday morning in Chilton County tragically claimed the life of Jessica Fortenberry, 54, of Billingsley, who was a passenger in a Chrysler van that struck a tree. The driver, Jaynell M. Peters, 57, was injured and transported to a hospital for care. Law enforcement continues to investigate the crash and has stressed the importance of seat belt use and cautious driving, especially during nighttime and early morning hours, to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
