Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash Claims Life of Tommy Hobson, 65, on Lee County Road 61

In a tragic incident on Thursday, April 3, 2025, 65-year-old Tommy Hobson of Auburn lost his life following a single-vehicle accident in rural Lee County, Alabama. According to Alabama State Troopers, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 9:06 PM when Hobson's pickup truck veered off Lee County Road 61 near its intersection with Lee County Road 2149, approximately three miles south of the town of Loachapoka. After leaving the roadway, the vehicle struck a ditch and subsequently collided with a tree before erupting into flames. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but sadly, Hobson was pronounced dead at the crash site. State Troopers have not released information regarding potential contributing factors to the accident, and the investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding the fatal crash remains ongoing.

Location and Infrastructure

Lee County Road 61, where this tragic accident occurred, is a rural two-lane highway that winds through the picturesque countryside of eastern Alabama. The specific stretch near Lee County Road 2149 is characterized by gentle curves and moderate elevation changes typical of the region's topography. This area, situated approximately three miles south of the small town of Loachapoka and northwest of Auburn, features limited roadway lighting and minimal shoulder space in certain sections. The rural nature of this roadway means emergency response times can be longer than in more densely populated areas. This particular intersection lacks traffic signals, relying instead on stop signs for traffic control. The area experiences moderate local traffic, primarily consisting of residents traveling between the smaller communities and larger hubs like Auburn and Opelika.

Legal Rights and Considerations

In Alabama, survivors of individuals killed in single-vehicle accidents may have legal recourse through various channels depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the crash. Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, which can significantly impact liability claims. The state's wrongful death statute (Code of Alabama § 6-5-410) allows only the personal representative of the deceased's estate to file a wrongful death claim, with a strict two-year statute of limitations from the date of death. Potential claims might involve vehicle defects, road design or maintenance issues, or other contributing factors. Insurance considerations typically include auto liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and potentially medical payments coverage. Compensation may address funeral expenses, lost future income, and punitive damages, though Alabama law has specific limitations on recoverable damages in wrongful death cases.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Lee County Sheriff's Office: (334) 749-5651
• East Alabama Medical Center: (334) 749-3411
• Lee County Emergency Management Agency: (334) 749-8161

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Alabama Department of Transportation: (334) 242-6358
• Alabama Strategic Highway Safety Plan
• Drive Safe Alabama

Support Services for Accident Victims:

• Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission: (800) 541-9388
• Alabama Head Injury Foundation: (800) 433-8002
• Crisis Center of East Alabama: (334) 749-8400

Legal and Regulatory Information:

• Alabama Department of Insurance: (334) 269-3550
• Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service: (800) 392-5660
• Alabama Code of Law - Title 32 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic)