Cleburne Co, AL – Man Killed in Van-Truck Collision on I-20 Near Heflin

Cleburne Co, AL (May 2, 2025) – A deadly crash occurred on May 1 in Cleburne County, claiming the life of a man from Birmingham. The accident happened around 12:55 p.m. along Interstate 20 near Heflin and involved a Ford Econoline van and a Kenworth tractor-trailer.

Authorities with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency reported that 38-year-old Demetrius J. McGhee, a Birmingham resident, was behind the wheel of the van when it struck the back of the tractor-trailer, which was being driven by 55-year-old Michael L. Simpson of Camden. Investigators are still working to determine what led to the crash.

Emergency crews responded promptly and found the van with extensive damage.

Tragically, McGhee died at the scene. Firefighters had to extricate him from the vehicle, while law enforcement officers secured the area and worked to divert traffic around the wreck. Simpson remained at the scene and did not report any significant injuries. He is said to be cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Traffic on I-20 was temporarily impacted as first responders worked to clear the scene and begin their investigation. No charges have been filed as of now, and troopers continue to examine the events that led to the collision.

We extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Demetrius J. McGhee as they cope with this tragic loss.

Deadly Accidents in Cleburne County

Despite its rural setting and relatively low population, Cleburne County has seen a number of fatal crashes in recent years, particularly on I-20. The combination of fast-moving traffic and frequent commercial transport makes this corridor especially hazardous. Incidents like this highlight the ongoing risks that drivers face on Alabama’s highways.

When a fatal crash is the result of another driver’s actions, surviving relatives may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit. While legal proceedings cannot bring back a loved one, they can help secure accountability and offer some degree of financial support. It’s important to speak with a skilled legal professional without delay, as these cases are often time-sensitive.

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

Call Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey at (205) 349-2009 to speak with one of our attorneys about your loved one's tragic and fatal Cleburne County car 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.