Slade Holcomb Tuscaloosa County, AL Death and Obituary – The Hale County community is mourning the tragic death of 16-year-old Slade Holcomb, who was struck and killed by a vehicle in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, on Sunday, October 19, 2025. The fatal incident occurred along Highway 69, roughly 12 miles south of Tuscaloosa, and has left family, friends, and classmates devastated.
According to authorities, Holcomb, a Hale County High School student, was walking near the roadway around 6:40 p.m. when he was hit by a 2018 Ford F-150 pickup truck driven by 76-year-old Warner L. Rainer of Tuscaloosa. The impact was severe, and despite emergency response efforts, Holcomb was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) have taken charge of the case to determine the exact circumstances leading to the tragedy. Early reports suggest that visibility and traffic conditions are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. No charges or citations have been announced at this time, and authorities have not released further details regarding potential contributing factors.
Holcomb was a bright and well-loved member of the Hale County High School student body. School officials confirmed that he had spent part of the evening helping classmates build a homecoming float, a popular community activity, before the accident occurred. Friends and teachers described him as kind-hearted, enthusiastic, and full of potential—a young man known for his positive energy and strong friendships.
In the aftermath of the accident, both Hale County and Tuscaloosa County residents have come together to support the Holcomb family. A memorial event is reportedly being planned at the high school to honor Slade’s memory, and grief counselors have been made available for students and staff coping with the loss. Social media posts flooded with messages of love and remembrance reflect the profound impact Holcomb had on those around him.
Community members expressed heartbreak at the news, with many describing the tragedy as a reminder of the importance of road safety and awareness—especially during busy community events. Local churches and youth organizations have also offered support to the family, providing meals, prayers, and assistance in organizing memorial services.
As the ALEA investigation continues, the Holcomb family is asking for privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved son. The community’s outpouring of compassion underscores how deeply Slade’s passing has affected Hale County and beyond.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly lives can change and the importance of looking out for one another on the road.