HARTSELLE, Ala. (WHNT) — The Hartselle community is grieving after a deadly crash, and 17-year-old Tristan Hollis’ family describes it as “horrific” and “senseless.”
Tristan Hollis, identified to News 19 by his grandmother, was killed after Priceville Police said suspect Archie Hale did not pull over for officers. Police chased Hale until he crashed into a minivan in Hartselle that Hollis was riding in.
Hollis’ mother, Rachel Moore, posted to Facebook saying that Hollis was her only child.
“I am Rachel, Tristan Hollis’s mother, the 17 year old that was killed in this senseless, horrific accident. He was my only child. I have my own opinions and thoughts about all of this, but I digress.
Please pray for all the young men that were involved in this accident. Also, I ask for everyone to pray for the man, Archie Brandon Hale, that killed my sweet, precious son. Yes, he selfishly and maliciously took my son’s life, but in the end, my son is in a far better place than what is about to be bestowed amongst him.”
Rachel Moore
Priceville Police told News 19 that six individuals were injured in the crash, including Tristan, suspect Archie Hale, Hale’s passenger, and three other boys also in the minivan.
According to GoFundMe, those boys are Braxton Wales, 16-year-old Noah Prater and 14-year-old Gavin Prater.
News 19’s Peyton Newman reached out to Kevin Pylant, Wales’s uncle, who said the family is shattered. He shared the following statement.
“We are deeply shattered by this tragic event. One child has lost his life, and three teenagers’ lives have been changed forever. My heart goes out to all of the families affected by this unimaginable tragedy, and I want to express my deepest respect for every family involved. I am also truly thankful for the way the Hartselle community has come together in support during this difficult time. There are mixed opinions surrounding this case, but the one undeniable truth is that in times of heartbreak, our community has shown its strength and compassion by standing together. Out of respect, I will not comment on the conditions of those involved. What I can share is that Braxton Wales is recovering. This will be a long road, not only for Braxton, but for all of the families impacted. Surviving something this terrible can take a heavy toll on one’s mental health, and the journey forward will require healing not just physically, but emotionally as well. Continued prayers and support are needed for everyone whose lives have been forever changed.”
Kevin Pylant
Gavin and Noah Prater’s grandmother also took to social media, saying tears were streaming down her face. She said the two brothers are being treated in different hospitals. She is at Noah’s bedside while Gavin’s father is with him at another hospital. She said she wants Tristan’s family to know how broken-hearted she is over their loss.
Hollis’ grandmother said his burial service is on Thursday at Hartselle City Cemetery.
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