TUSCALOOSA COUNTY, Ala. — A tragic accident Sunday evening claimed the life of 16-year-old Slade Holcomb, a student at Hale County High School, after he was struck by a vehicle while walking along Alabama Highway 69.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the collision occurred around 6:40 p.m., roughly 12 miles south of Tuscaloosa. Authorities said Holcomb was walking near the roadway when he was hit by a Ford F-150, driven by 76-year-old Warner L. Rainer of Tuscaloosa. Emergency responders rushed Holcomb to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead from his injuries.
Holcomb’s family and friends identified him through a GoFundMe page created to assist with funeral expenses. He was remembered by classmates as a bright, spirited, and kind-hearted young man who was full of energy and dreams. At the time of the crash, Holcomb had been helping his classmates prepare a homecoming float for the school’s upcoming Homecoming Week celebrations.
Hale County High School Principal Ronnie Garner expressed heartbreak over the loss, describing Holcomb as a “beloved member of our school community.” Garner said counselors and grief support staff have been made available to students and faculty as they process the tragedy. “Our hearts go out to Slade’s family and friends during this unimaginable time,” Garner said.
The community of Moundville and surrounding areas has been deeply affected by Holcomb’s death. Friends, classmates, and neighbors have shared messages of sympathy and remembrance on social media, highlighting his positive attitude and dedication to his school and peers. The GoFundMe campaign, titled Assist the Holcomb Family, was set up to help cover funeral costs and provide support to the grieving family.
ALEA continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine what led to the fatal collision. No additional details have been released at this time regarding potential contributing factors. For those wishing to assist, donations can be made through GoFundMe – Assist the Holcomb Family, as the community comes together to honor the memory of a young life lost far too soon.