Richard J, Whaley Obituary, Death – A fatal single-vehicle crash in Tuscaloosa County has claimed the life of a Centreville man, according to Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) State Troopers.
Authorities identified the victim as 37-year-old Richard J. Whaley. The incident took place on the afternoon of Wednesday, August 14, along Alabama Highway 69, close to the 172-mile marker. This location is about 23 miles north of Northport, a rural stretch of roadway lined with wooded areas.
Preliminary reports from ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division indicate that Whaley was driving his pickup truck when, for reasons not yet determined, the vehicle veered off the roadway. After leaving the highway, the truck collided with multiple trees before coming to a stop. The impact was severe, and Troopers confirmed that Whaley died at the scene from his injuries.
Officials have not released further details regarding the cause of the crash, and it remains unclear whether speed, road conditions, mechanical failure, or another factor played a role. Investigators are continuing to piece together evidence from the scene to determine what led to the vehicle leaving the road.
The crash resulted in no other reported injuries, as Whaley was the sole occupant of the truck. Emergency responders, including Troopers and local first responders from the area, arrived quickly after the incident was reported. Despite their efforts, Whaley could not be saved.
State Troopers use incidents like this to remind motorists to remain alert while driving, especially on rural highways where high speeds, curves, and roadside hazards such as trees can significantly increase the severity of crashes. Even momentary distractions or slight misjudgments can result in deadly consequences when traveling at highway speeds.
As of now, ALEA has not indicated whether toxicology testing will be part of the investigation, but such testing is standard procedure in fatal crashes to help rule out or confirm impairment as a possible factor.
Friends and family of Whaley are expected to be notified by local authorities, and funeral arrangements will likely be announced in the coming days. The crash has shaken the Centreville community, where Whaley was known and where news of his sudden passing has spread quickly.
Highway 69 in this section sees regular commuter and local traffic, as it serves as a connection between smaller communities and larger towns like Northport and Tuscaloosa. While the road is generally considered safe, sections with limited shoulders and dense tree lines can present hazards, especially in cases where drivers lose control of their vehicles.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency emphasized that the investigation into this tragic crash is still ongoing. More details will be shared with the public once they become available. In the meantime, Troopers continue to encourage drivers to use caution, wear seatbelts, and remain attentive at all times while behind the wheel to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
