LOXLEY, Ala. —Authorities in Loxley have confirmed the identity of a man who was struck and killed along a busy roadway earlier this week. Police said the victim was 25-year-old Joseph Buckalew, who died Monday evening after being hit by a car while walking on Highway 59. The collision occurred around 8:30 p.m., near Baldwin Prep Academy, according to initial reports from investigators.
When first responders arrived at the scene, Buckalew did not have any identification on him, which made it difficult for authorities to immediately determine who he was. For hours after the incident, police worked to piece together clues that would help them identify the man and notify his family.
It was only later that officials were able to confirm his identity as Buckalew. However, while his name and age are now known, many questions remain unanswered. Loxley police explained that they have not yet been able to determine where Buckalew was living at the time of the crash. Their investigation has so far uncovered only limited information about his background.
The only personal connection authorities have discovered is the possibility of distant relatives in the nearby city of Spanish Fort. Investigators are attempting to track down those family members in hopes of learning more about Buckalew’s life, where he was from, and whether he had closer relatives who should be informed of his death.
Highway 59, where the tragedy occurred, is a heavily traveled stretch of road that sees both local and through traffic. The area near Baldwin Prep Academy, especially during evening hours, can be dangerous for pedestrians. Authorities have not released further details on the vehicle or driver involved in the collision, and no charges have been announced. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash remains ongoing.
The incident highlights the difficulties police sometimes face when victims of accidents cannot be easily identified. Without identification, investigators must rely on fingerprints, tattoos, medical records, or potential family connections to confirm who the person is. In Buckalew’s case, those challenges delayed the process, though officials stressed that every effort was made to treat the matter with urgency and respect.
Community members have expressed sympathy upon learning the victim’s name, though many say they knew little about him. The lack of available information about Buckalew’s personal life has made the case unusual, leaving unanswered questions about who he was and what brought him to the area that night.
For now, police continue to investigate both the crash itself and the victim’s background. Authorities have said they are committed to learning more so that family members can have answers and proper arrangements can be made.
The case remains under review, and updates are expected as police work to contact any relatives and finalize details surrounding the fatal crash.
