09/04/2026
MEDIA RELEASE
September 4, 2026
**Due to requests for information and in an effort to clarify misinformation circulating on social media, Turkey Heaven Volunteer Fire Department is releasing the following statement regarding this morning’s incident on Highway 46.**
**Out of respect for those involved and their families, Turkey Heaven VFD will not release the names or identifying information of any parties involved. Any information regarding the identities of those involved or the investigation should be obtained through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).**
At approximately 5:30 a.m. this morning, Turkey Heaven Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a reported head-on collision on Highway 46.
Upon arrival, responding personnel found two vehicles that had been involved in a head-on collision. Due to the initial assessment of injuries, an air ambulance was requested. Ranburne Fire Department responded to assist with establishing a landing zone. The air ambulance response was later canceled due to an extended estimated time of arrival.
Due to the severity of the collision, Highway 46 was closed to traffic while emergency operations were underway. Fire personnel performed vehicle extrication and remained on scene to assist the Cleburne County Coroner, ALEA, and other responding agencies. Personnel also assisted with roadway cleanup and the removal of hazards. Once emergency operations were completed and the roadway was determined to be safe, units cleared the scene and returned to service.
Unfortunately, one fatality was confirmed at the scene. A juvenile patient and an additional adult patient were transported by Cleburne EMS to the hospital for further medical treatment.
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A Note Regarding the Road Closure:
We understand that closing or detouring a highway creates an inconvenience for those traveling through our community. However, we ask everyone to please understand that roadways are not closed unnecessarily during incidents such as this.
When firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, towing personnel, and other responders are working a serious accident scene, the roadway may have to be closed to protect the victims, the responders, and the traveling public. Vehicle extrication, patient care, crash investigation, removal of vehicles and debris, and roadway cleanup all require personnel to work in and around the highway.
We ask for your patience and understanding when you encounter a road closure. Please slow down, follow the directions of emergency personnel, and remember that there are people working on that roadway while families may be experiencing one of the most difficult moments of their lives.
We do not want a roadway closed any longer than necessary, but when safety and emergency operations require it, the roadway must remain closed until the scene can be safely cleared.
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A Special Thank You:
We want to extend a very special thank you to the multiple civilian witnesses who stopped and immediately stepped in to assist our fire personnel.
In an extremely difficult and chaotic situation, these individuals did not hesitate to help. They saw people in need and chose to act. Their willingness to assist our responders and those involved in the collision was greatly appreciated.
That is what community is about — neighbors helping neighbors when it matters most.
We would also like to sincerely thank Cleburne County 911, Cleburne EMS, Ranburne Fire Department, Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office, the Cleburne County Coroner, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Cheatwood’s Towing, and our very own responders for their response, assistance, cooperation, and teamwork throughout this incident.
Incidents such as this remind all of us how quickly life can change. Behind every emergency call are individuals, families, friends, and loved ones whose lives can be forever affected in a matter of seconds.
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Above everything else contained in this release, we ask that you pray.
Please pray for the family grieving the loss of a loved one. Pray for those who were injured. Pray for every family affected by this collision. Pray for those who witnessed it, those who stopped to help, and the first responders who answered the call.
There will be plenty of time for questions and for the appropriate agencies to complete their investigation. Right now, there are families who need the prayers and support of their community.
Please continue to keep everyone involved and their families close in your thoughts and prayers throughout the difficult hours and days ahead.
-Turkey Heaven Volunteer Fire Department
