(Etowah County, Alabama — October 21, 2025) – Tragedy struck on Sunday morning when 22-year-old Amber Lee Blackwood was tragically killed in a multi-vehicle collision on U.S. Route 278 in Etowah County. Her husband, 21-year-old Timothy “Noah” Blackwood, and their 1-year-old daughter, Ava Shea, were seriously injured and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
How the Crash Happened
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the crash occurred around 11:20 a.m. on U.S. 278 near Attalla. A Ford F-250 collided with the Toyota Camry that Amber was riding in, triggering a chain reaction with a Chevrolet 1500.
Amber was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband suffered a head injury, while their infant daughter was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Another passenger in the Chevrolet, Larriann N. Sanders (27), was also hospitalized.
The investigation remains ongoing as troopers continue to examine vehicle data, skid marks, and witness statements to determine the cause of the crash.
Family Support via GoFundMe
Following this heartbreaking tragedy, a GoFundMe page was established to assist the Blackwood family with funeral expenses and medical bills.
The campaign, created by friends and family, describes Amber as “a kind, loving young mother who had just earned her real estate license and had her whole life ahead of her.”
Donations continue to pour in as the community rallies to support her husband and daughter during recovery.
How to Contact the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
If you or your family need an official accident report or updates on an ALEA investigation, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) provides several options:
📍 Headquarters:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
301 South Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
📞 Phone: (334) 517-2800
🌐 Online: ALEA Crash Report Portal
For accidents investigated by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division in Etowah County, you can request your official crash report online or by visiting your local ALEA post.
Crash reports typically become available within 7–10 business days after the incident. Having the report is essential for insurance claims, personal injury cases, or potential wrongful death actions.
Legal Rights After a Fatal Alabama Car Accident
Under Alabama’s wrongful death statute, families who lose a loved one in a motor vehicle collision caused by negligence may pursue a claim for punitive damages and other compensation.
A successful case can help cover:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills for injured family members
- Loss of financial support and companionship
- Pain and emotional suffering
It’s crucial to contact an Alabama wrongful death attorney quickly to preserve evidence such as black-box data, crash reports, and eyewitness accounts before they are lost or altered.
How Fob James Law Firm Can Help
At Fob James Law Firm, our team represents families across Alabama in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. We understand the emotional toll and financial stress that follow a tragedy like this.
Our firm offers:
- Free consultations (no obligation)
- No fees unless we win your case
- Access to top accident reconstruction experts
- Compassionate, dedicated legal support every step of the way
📞 Call (205) 407-6009 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Alabama wrongful death attorney today.
Fob James
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large regional firm for several years where he obtained awards for both individual and corporate clients, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society.