LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. — Authorities have identified the man who was killed in a single-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning on Interstate 65. The Huntsville Police Department confirmed the victim as 45-year-old Justin Todd Underwood, a resident of Falkville.
According to police, the crash occurred around 4:55 a.m. near Bibb Garrett Road, when Underwood’s vehicle, traveling northbound, struck a guardrail in the median. The impact caused severe damage, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Officers from the Huntsville Police Department and Limestone County Coroner Mike West arrived on scene shortly after. Underwood was pronounced dead at the scene. Although the crash took place within Limestone County, Huntsville police are leading the investigation because the affected lane falls under their jurisdiction.
Investigators are working to determine what caused the vehicle to veer off course and hit the guardrail. Authorities say they will review possible contributing factors such as road conditions, weather, vehicle performance, and visibility. Early-morning crashes are often influenced by reduced light and fatigue, which can limit a driver’s reaction time. At this point, officials believe the crash involved no other vehicles.
The Huntsville Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit is handling the investigation. Detectives are gathering data from the crash site and reviewing nearby surveillance or traffic camera footage to better understand the sequence of events. Police urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or observed the vehicle beforehand to contact them as the investigation continues.
News of Underwood’s death has deeply affected the Falkville community, where friends and neighbors have shared condolences and memories online. Many described him as a kind, hardworking man who cared deeply for his family. Community members have expressed support for his loved ones as they cope with the sudden loss.
Authorities say the case remains active, and updates will be provided once additional findings are confirmed. The Huntsville Police Department and Limestone County Coroner’s Office have both extended their sympathies to Underwood’s family. Law enforcement officials are also reminding drivers to stay alert, reduce speed during early hours, and always use caution on major highways like I-65, where even a brief lapse in attention can have tragic consequences.