Cullman County, Alabama (April 12, 2026) — Two people were killed Sunday evening in a two-vehicle crash involving a Nissan Rogue and a tractor-trailer in Cullman County, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
Officials identified the victims as 84-year-old Oneal Kelley of Arab and 79-year-old Martha Kelley of Arab. Oneal Kelley was pronounced dead at the scene, and Martha Kelley later died at Cullman Regional Medical Center after suffering critical injuries.
The crash happened at about 6:15 p.m. on Alabama 91 near Cullman County Road 649, about six miles east of Holly Pond.
Incident Details: According to state troopers, Oneal Kelley was driving a 2017 Nissan Rogue when a 2011 Peterbilt tractor-trailer struck it. Martha Kelley was a passenger in the Nissan. Authorities have not yet released additional details about how the vehicles came together or which vehicle may have entered the other’s path.
Troopers said Oneal Kelley died at the scene. Martha Kelley was transported to Cullman Regional Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries. ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division is continuing to investigate the crash.
Investigation: In a crash like this, investigators will likely focus on how the Nissan and tractor-trailer came together on Alabama 91 and whether speed, lane position, visibility, or right-of-way played a role. In fatal collisions involving a commercial truck, even a brief sequence of driver decisions can become central to understanding what happened.
Investigators may also review vehicle damage, roadway evidence, witness statements, and any available video or electronic data to reconstruct the collision. Because public reporting has not yet explained the cause, the crash investigation will likely be especially important in determining whether the deaths of Oneal and Martha Kelley were preventable.
Legal Considerations: Accidents involving fatal collisions with a tractor-trailer often immediately give rise to significant questions of civil liability, even before a public determination of fault has been made. A civil investigation into a commercial vehicle accident may explore matters beyond the scope of an initial public report, such as the driver’s conduct, vehicle maintenance, and other safety and operational issues.
Pending the investigation’s findings, the family of Oneal and Martha Kelley might have the right to pursue wrongful death claims. These could help cover funeral and burial costs and offer support for their loss of financial support, love, and guidance.
I extend my deepest condolences to the Kelley family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Source: ABC 33/40