Donald Cantrell Obituary, Death – The suspect and victim involved in a tragic DUI crash on US-119 near Alum Creek have been identified. The crash occurred at the notorious intersection of US-119 and Brounland Road, an area known for its history of accidents, which has raised concerns about road safety for years.
The victim, Donald Cantrell, was killed in the collision that took place on Wednesday, just before 10:30 a.m. According to South Charleston Police Captain Andrew Gordon, Cantrell lost his life at the scene. The crash occurred on a road that has long been a focal point for traffic safety issues. Despite efforts to improve conditions, this intersection remains hazardous.
The suspect arrested in connection with the crash is 45-year-old Alva Jones. Jones has been charged with DUI causing death, DUI causing bodily injury, and possession with intent to deliver. He is expected to appear in court for his arraignment on Thursday. Investigators have indicated that Jones was driving under the influence at the time of the crash, leading to the fatal accident and the injury of another individual involved. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence to determine the full scope of Jones’s actions leading up to the incident.
The crash took place around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, and Metro 911 dispatchers received calls reporting the incident shortly after it occurred. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene to provide aid and begin the investigation. However, despite their efforts, the crash resulted in Cantrell’s death, leaving his family and loved ones devastated.
The intersection where the crash occurred, US-119 and Brounland Road, has long been considered dangerous. The road has been the site of several fatal accidents over the years, and the community has raised concerns about the need for traffic safety measures in the area. These concerns were addressed in 2020 when traffic lights were finally installed at the intersection, following years of advocacy from the local community.
Eddie Belcher, a late community activist, played a crucial role in getting the traffic lights installed. Through years of campaigning, Belcher and a group of concerned citizens gathered thousands of petition signatures to persuade state authorities to make changes to the intersection. Their efforts were successful in 2020 when traffic lights were finally added, providing a measure of safety at the intersection. However, despite these improvements, the intersection remains a danger, and the recent crash highlights ongoing issues with traffic safety in the area.
The tragic incident has prompted further calls for improved road safety measures at the intersection and in other high-risk areas across the region. Community members and advocates are urging local authorities to continue addressing traffic hazards and work toward reducing the number of accidents that occur in these dangerous areas.
As the investigation into the crash continues, police are focusing on the details of Jones’s actions leading up to the incident. They are working to determine the extent of his impairment at the time of the crash and whether other factors, such as speed or reckless driving, may have contributed to the fatal accident. Investigators are also looking into Jones’s background to determine whether he has a history of driving under the influence or other offenses.
In addition to the criminal charges against Jones, the incident is likely to raise further concerns about the consequences of driving under the influence. DUI-related accidents remain a significant issue on roads across the country, with alcohol and drugs playing a major role in many fatal crashes. Authorities are using this tragic event to remind the public about the dangers of impaired driving and the severe consequences it can have for individuals and families.
As the community mourns the loss of Donald Cantrell, friends, family, and local residents are also calling for continued improvements to road safety measures. The tragic loss has left a deep impact on the people who knew Cantrell, and many are hoping that the incident will serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for traffic safety reforms, particularly in high-risk areas.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. The public is also urged to remain vigilant and report any concerns about traffic safety to local authorities, in hopes of preventing further accidents and improving the safety of the roads.
In the meantime, the family of Donald Cantrell is left to cope with the loss of their loved one, while the legal process unfolds for Alva Jones. The case highlights the importance of responsible driving and the need for stronger measures to prevent impaired driving, ensuring that tragedies like this do not continue to occur.