GREENE COUNTY, Ala. — With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we report a devastating tragedy that unfolded late Saturday night, July 5, on Interstate 59 in Greene County, Alabama. A violent head-on collision between two vehicles claimed the lives of five individuals, including two young children.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the crash occurred at approximately 10:17 p.m. when a 2019 RAM 1500 pickup truck, driven by 45-year-old Stephen L. Keele of Ellisville, Mississippi, collided with a 2022 Toyota Sienna van driven by 36-year-old Tejaswini R. Cholleti of Aubrey, Texas. Inside the van were three passengers: 40-year-old Sri V. Bejugam and two children, just 6 and 8 years old.
The impact of the crash was catastrophic, and both vehicles were engulfed in flames shortly after the collision. Tragically, all five individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. The fire further compounded the devastation, leaving first responders and investigators confronted with a harrowing scene of loss and destruction.
This heartbreaking incident has shaken not only the local community of Greene County but also the families and loved ones of the victims across state lines in Mississippi and Texas. A family road trip ended in unimaginable sorrow, and a Mississippi man lost his life in a moment that will forever change many lives.
ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are working diligently to piece together the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
As this investigation unfolds, our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families during this time of profound loss. The pain of this tragedy is immeasurable, and we honor the lives lost with compassion and respect.
May the memories of those who perished bring comfort to those left behind, and may their souls rest in eternal peace.
