DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) — Police say a deadly, fiery crash on Saturday night in Decatur involved a drunk driver and drew the attention of several bystanders who stopped to help, leaving one of them severely injured.
The Decatur Police Department said around 9:02 p.m., officers with the department and Decatur Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the area of Beltline Road SW and Westmead Street SW for a two-vehicle wreck with injuries.
“Reports indicated that a sole female occupant was trapped inside a vehicle that had caught fire,” DPD said.
DPD said multiple people stopped to aid and attempt to rescue the girl trapped in the vehicle. During these efforts, authorities said the vehicle exploded and one person was seriously injured. That person was airlifted to UAB Hospital due to the severity of their burns.
The department said upon arrival, one of the vehicles was found “fully engulfed” in flames. A 17-year-old girl trapped in the vehicle was pronounced dead on the scene.
“Our hearts go out to her family and loved ones during this time of unimaginable loss. We also extend our deepest sympathy and gratitude to the brave individuals who risked their lives trying to save her. Their courage in the face of danger is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community,” Chief Nadis E. Carlisle, Jr. said in a statement Monday.
Police said the driver of the second vehicle, later identified as Kevin Jay Penich, was arrested for driving under the influence.
Traffic Homicide Investigators responded to the crash and are in control of the ongoing investigation.
Chief Carlisle released a full statement regarding this crash and another that occurred a short time later near Beltline Road NW near the railroad crossing just south of Highway 20. That crash involved a motorcycle and a train, and led to the death of 57-year-old Leroy Goodwin Jr, of Trinity.
You can read more from Carlisle’s statement below.
Due to the magnitude of these two tragic incidents and the strain on departmental resources, additional officers were called in. I extend my sincere thanks to all DPD officers who professionally worked these two scenes.
The Decatur Police Department would like to publicly recognize and thank the brave citizens who risked their lives in an effort to save a young woman. Their actions represent the very best of our community. One of these heroes suffered serious injuries, and our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies go out to him and his family. Their courage will not be forgotten.
Chief Nadis E. Carlisle, Jr.
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