Bessemer, AL – Pedestrian Killed by Train on Ave A

Bessemer, AL (April 23, 2024) – A tragic incident occurred late Sunday night when a 49-year-old man was fatally struck by a freight train in Bessemer. The collision took place around 10:45 p.m. on Ave A, as confirmed by the Jefferson County Coroner's Office.

According to authorities, the victim, identified as Cedric Lamar Dean from Birmingham, was walking near the train tracks when he was hit by the passing freight train. The exact circumstances leading to the collision are under investigation. Emergency responders, including officers from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Bessemer Fire Department, and EMS personnel, arrived at the scene and found Dean with fatal injuries.

First responders attempted to provide life-saving efforts and secure the area, but unfortunately, Dean was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later transported by ambulance under the supervision of the coroner’s office. Investigators are still working to determine how Dean ended up on the tracks at the time of the accident.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Cedric Lamar Dean’s family and loved ones during this difficult period.

Fatal Pedestrian Collisions in Jefferson County

Pedestrian fatalities continue to be a pressing issue in Jefferson County and throughout Alabama. Data from the Alabama Department of Transportation reveals a consistent rise in pedestrian deaths over the past decade, with Jefferson County ranking among the highest for such incidents. In 2022, Alabama saw more than 120 pedestrian fatalities, many of which occurred in urban areas like Birmingham and Bessemer, where pedestrian traffic intersects with high-speed vehicle routes and railway crossings. These tragic events often share common factors such as poor visibility, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and distracted driving or negligence from operators.

When a pedestrian loses their life due to the negligence of a train operator, motorist, or another party, the victim’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim under Alabama law. Such legal actions can provide surviving family members with compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, emotional distress, and the loss of companionship. While no financial amount can replace a loved one, pursuing legal recourse can offer accountability and help reduce the risk of similar tragedies occurring in the future.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal Bessemer pedestrian accident, it’s important to have a skilled Alabama wrongful death attorney on your side. At Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP, we work tirelessly to secure favorable outcomes for our clients in boat accident cases.

Call (205) 349-2009 to speak with one of our attorneys about your Bessemer pedestrian accident. We’ll provide the legal support you need and ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the legal process.

Notes: Our writers relied on secondary sources to create this article. Our staff has not independently verified all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, if you find any incorrect information, please contact Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP, immediately so that we can update the post to reflect the most accurate information available. The post may be deleted upon request.

Disclaimer: This post's content is not intended to serve as legal or medical advice. The image used in this post was not taken.