Franklin D. Turney Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Morgan County have confirmed the identity of the man who was killed in a train-vehicle collision in Hartselle on Wednesday. The victim has been named as 91-year-old Franklin D. Turney, a longtime resident of Hartselle. The announcement was made Thursday by Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn, who confirmed Turney’s death resulted from injuries sustained during the crash.
The accident took place at the railroad crossing on College Street, a spot that sees frequent train traffic. According to investigators, Turney was driving eastbound when his vehicle encountered a train traveling north along the tracks. The collision occurred at the crossing point, leaving little opportunity for the driver to avoid impact.
Police reports indicate the force of the crash was so significant that the train pushed Turney’s vehicle approximately 800 yards—nearly half a mile—from the original site of impact before coming to a stop. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but despite their efforts, Turney did not survive his injuries and was pronounced dead.
RailRailroad crossing at College Street in Hartselle
Railroad crossing at College Street in Hartselle
The Hartselle Police Department, along with other local agencies, immediately began piecing together what led to the tragic incident. While full details have yet to be released, the preliminary information suggests Turney’s vehicle was struck as he attempted to cross the tracks. Authorities have not said whether warning signals were activated at the time, nor have they provided information on how fast the train was traveling.
News of the crash has deeply affected the Hartselle community, where Turney was a familiar figure. At 91 years old, he represented a generation that has witnessed the town’s growth and changes over many decades. Community members expressed sorrow upon hearing of the accident, recognizing the loss of someone who had lived in the area for so many years.
The crash underscores the dangers that railroad crossings can present, even in small towns where residents are accustomed to the daily rhythm of trains. Collisions between trains and vehicles are often catastrophic due to the sheer size and weight of locomotives, which can take long distances to stop once brakes are applied. In this case, the aftermath illustrated how powerful such collisions can be, with the car being dragged hundreds of yards.
Authorities are now working to determine exactly what factors contributed to the accident. The investigation will look into whether driver error, mechanical issues, or other circumstances were involved. Investigators are also expected to examine the railroad crossing itself, reviewing whether safety features like crossing arms, lights, or signals were functioning properly at the time of the collision.
Officials have not provided a timeline for when their findings will be released, but they emphasized that the inquiry is ongoing. Such investigations typically involve gathering statements from witnesses, reviewing any available video footage, and consulting with railroad officials to reconstruct the sequence of events.
While the coroner’s office has confirmed Turney’s death, arrangements for his family have not been made public. Out of respect for the grieving relatives, officials are refraining from sharing personal details beyond his identity and confirmation of his residence in Hartselle.
The incident has also raised awareness about railroad safety in the region. Authorities are reminding drivers to remain alert when approaching train tracks, to obey posted signs and signals, and to exercise patience if a train is coming. They stressed that trains often appear to be moving slower than they actually are, creating a false sense of security for motorists attempting to cross.
As the investigation continues, residents of Hartselle and the broader Morgan County area are left reflecting on the suddenness of the tragedy and the vulnerability that can come with routine travel. For now, the community mourns the loss of Franklin D. Turney, a 91-year-old man whose life ended unexpectedly at a familiar crossing in the town he called home.
