Tragic Car Crash Claims Life of Huntsville Man

Emergency responders at a car crash scene on a highway in Huntsville, Alabama.

Huntsville, Alabama, October 5, 2025

News Summary

Walter Stephens III, a 64-year-old man from Huntsville, tragically passed away due to injuries sustained in a car crash that occurred on September 13. The accident involved a head-on collision with two vehicles, resulting in injuries to four others. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of highway driving, prompting investigations by state troopers as the community awaits updates on the injured parties.

Huntsville, Alabama – Walter Stephens III, a 64-year-old man from Huntsville, died from injuries sustained in a car crash that occurred just weeks earlier. The tragic incident took place around 9 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, on Highway 72.

In the crash, Stephens collided head-on with two other vehicles, resulting in injuries to four other individuals. Stephen’s injuries were severe enough to warrant transport to Huntsville Hospital, where he remained until his passing on October 2.

The first vehicle struck by Stephan’s car was a Honda Pilot, driven by 45-year-old Jefford Wright. Wright was accompanied by passengers, including Ashley Wright, 38, and a 1-year-old child. All three individuals were transported to local hospitals for medical care following the crash. The extent of their injuries remains unclear.

The second vehicle involved in the accident was a Toyota Highlander, driven by 62-year-old Kathy Rena Barker Garth. Garth was also taken to Huntsville Hospital for treatment, although her condition is unknown at this time.

The crash occurred near the 110 mile marker, approximately three miles northwest of Gurley in Madison County. State troopers are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Injuries and Ongoing Investigation

Besides Stephens, the other victims involved in the crash are receiving medical treatment. Information regarding their current conditions has not been released, leaving family and friends to await updates on their health status.

Crash Details

The collision drew attention from local authorities and first responders, who quickly arrived on the scene to assist the victims and begin the investigation process. The crash’s circumstances remain under scrutiny as state troopers gather evidence and witness testimonies.

Background Context

Car accidents are unfortunately common on highways, especially in busy areas like Madison County. Local law enforcement agencies routinely emphasize the importance of safe driving to prevent such tragic incidents. This recent crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers present on the road.

FAQs

What caused the crash involving Walter Stephens III?
The crash is currently under investigation, and state troopers are looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
How many people were injured in the crash?
Four other people were injured in the crash alongside Walter Stephens III.
What are the ages of the other individuals involved in the crash?
The other individuals involved included Jefford Wright, 45, Ashley Wright, 38, and Kathy Rena Barker Garth, 62.
Have any details been released about the condition of the injured passengers?
The conditions of Jefford Wright, Ashley Wright, the child, and Kathy Rena Barker Garth remain unclear.
When did Walter Stephens III pass away?
Walter Stephens III passed away on October 2, weeks after the crash on September 13.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Victim Walter Stephens III, 64
Date of Crash September 13
Fatality October 2
Other Vehicles Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander
Injured Passengers Jefford Wright, Ashley Wright, Child, Kathy Rena Barker Garth
Location Highway 72, 110 mile marker, Madison County
Investigation Ongoing by State Troopers

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER

The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.

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