A tight-knit Alabama community is reeling after the tragic loss of a beloved coach and educator, Woodie Earl Beck III, who was among two people killed in a devastating multi-vehicle crash in Thomasville. Beck, 53, was known not just for his dedication on the field as an assistant football coach and head softball coach at Wilcox Academy in Camden, but also for his influential role as a physical education teacher who inspired and mentored countless young lives.

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 11:51 a.m. on Tuesday at the intersection of Highway 43 and South Industrial Park Drive. According to Thomasville police, four vehicles were stopped at a red light when a loaded semi-truck and trailer violently slammed into them. The impact was so severe that both Woodie Beck and Ashley Marie Springer McDonald, 37, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Four other individuals were transported to a local hospital and were later released. The horrific nature of the crash prompted a massive response from multiple law enforcement and emergency agencies. First responders, many of whom were visibly shaken, worked tirelessly in the aftermath of what Thomasville Mayor Sheldon Day called “one of the worst accidents” in the city’s history.

The driver of the semi-truck, identified as 45-year-old Andril Dmytarko, has been charged with two counts of vehicular manslaughter and is currently being held at the Clarke County Jail. Dmytarko, along with passenger Denys Kucher, 31, are both from Pennsylvania and are in the U.S. on work visas. The truck was operated by 4 US Transportation, a company based in Chicago. While the specifics surrounding the criminal charges have not yet been released, Thomasville Police have confirmed that the investigation remains active and that additional charges could be forthcoming.

Thomasville Police Chief Mitchell Stuckey expressed both sorrow and frustration over the incident, calling for prayers for the families affected by the “careless act” that led to such tragic losses. He emphasized the need for support not only for the victims’ loved ones but also for the first responders who were confronted with an emotionally scarring scene.

“There are things you cannot unsee,” Mayor Day echoed in a Facebook post. “This accident will forever be etched in their minds. Each of our first responders need your prayers… They did a tremendously professional job under extremely difficult circumstances.”

The outpouring of grief and condolences has been swift and heartfelt. The Alabama Independent School Association shared a touching tribute, stating, “He was loved by many and had a tremendous impact on the lives of young student-athletes.”

Beck was more than just a coach—he was a community pillar, known for his humility, kindness, and steadfast dedication to youth development. His influence extended well beyond the athletic field. At Wilcox Academy, he helped shape the character of his students and athletes, fostering teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

His wife, Tiffany Beck, manages The Pecan Downtown, a popular gourmet restaurant in Camden. The restaurant’s tribute painted a personal picture of the man so many admired: “Woodie was a friend to us all… His sweet smile, humble personality, love for children and his wife was apparent every time he walked in the door.”

Woodie Beck’s death is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how one tragic moment can ripple through a community. His legacy, however, is secure in the memories of those who knew him, played under his guidance, or simply crossed his path and experienced his warmth and generosity.

As the investigation continues and the community mourns, the focus remains on supporting the families affected by the tragedy, honoring the memory of those lost, and seeking accountability and justice for a heartbreaking loss that has shaken the heart of Alabama.

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