GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. – Authorities in Guntersville are investigating a tragic traffic collision that resulted in one woman losing her life and another being injured. The Guntersville Police Department reported that the crash occurred on Wednesday morning at approximately 7:53 a.m., at the intersection of U.S. Highway 431 and Buck Island Drive.
According to Lieutenant Josh Case of the Guntersville Police Traffic Homicide Unit, the incident involved two vehicles — a Mazda driven by 69-year-old Alexis Lauren Taylor-Boll of Guntersville, and a Jeep Wrangler operated by 29-year-old Chelsy Morgan Barnes of Dawson.
Preliminary findings suggest that Barnes was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 431 when Taylor-Boll, who was attempting to enter the highway and turn southbound, was struck during the maneuver. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, leading to an immediate emergency response from local authorities.
When officers and emergency medical personnel arrived, they quickly assessed the scene and provided assistance to both drivers. Sadly, Taylor-Boll was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. Barnes, meanwhile, was transported to Huntsville Hospital, where officials described her condition as stable.
Multiple agencies worked together at the site of the crash, including Guntersville Police, Guntersville Fire Department, and Marshall County Emergency Medical Services. Traffic in the area was temporarily diverted while first responders worked to clear debris, secure the scene, and document evidence.
Lieutenant Case stated that the Guntersville Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Unit is conducting a full investigation to determine the exact sequence of events and any potential contributing factors. This includes examining road conditions, vehicle data, and possible driver-related elements such as visibility, speed, or timing during the turn.
The intersection of Buck Island Drive and Highway 431 is a busy stretch of roadway, particularly during morning hours when commuters are traveling to work. Local residents have noted that this area has been the site of several serious collisions over the years, prompting ongoing discussions about roadway improvements and additional safety measures.
Authorities have not released any indication of wrongdoing or citations at this time, emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing and that all conclusions will be based on verified evidence once the reconstruction is complete. Investigators will also review any available traffic camera footage or eyewitness statements to ensure an accurate understanding of what led to the collision.
Officials from the Guntersville Police Department expressed their condolences to the family and friends of Alexis Lauren Taylor-Boll, recognizing the loss felt throughout the community. They also extended appreciation to the responding agencies for their swift coordination and professionalism in handling the situation.
Residents who regularly travel through the area have been reminded to exercise caution, especially at intersections where visibility may be limited or traffic is heavy during peak times. Police reiterated the importance of adhering to posted speed limits and being mindful of vehicles entering or exiting major roadways.
As part of their ongoing review, the Traffic Investigations Unit will compile findings into a formal report that will later be shared with local and state transportation officials. This process typically includes a detailed analysis of vehicle movement, point of impact, and contributing conditions such as weather, lighting, or road layout.
At this time, the focus remains on understanding what led to the tragic outcome and ensuring that measures are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In summary, 69-year-old Alexis Lauren Taylor-Boll of Guntersville lost her life following a two-vehicle collision with a Jeep Wrangler driven by 29-year-old Chelsy Morgan Barnes of Dawson at the intersection of U.S. Highway 431 and Buck Island Drive. Barnes was taken to Huntsville Hospital in stable condition. The crash remains under active investigation by the Guntersville Police Department’s Traffic Investigations Unit, which is working to determine the precise cause of the incident.
