Cheryl Denise Irby, 54, and Unidentified Driver Fatally Injured in Heartbreaking Birmingham Crash as Community Mourns Center Point Woman Known for Grace, Compassion, and Family Devotion; Authorities Investigate Details Behind High-Impact Collision on June 9, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, AL — June 9, 2025 — A devastating vehicle crash that unfolded in the early afternoon hours in Birmingham, Alabama, has taken the life of Cheryl Denise Irby, a 54-year-old Center Point resident remembered by family, friends, and neighbors for her unwavering kindness, deep commitment to her loved ones, and quiet strength. The collision, which involved two vehicles and occurred around 2:15 p.m., has left the entire Birmingham community in mourning and prompted an urgent investigation by the Birmingham Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit.

The second individual involved in the crash, a driver whose name has not yet been publicly released, was also fatally injured in the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that both individuals sustained critical trauma from the crash, and both were pronounced deceased either at the scene or shortly thereafter by emergency medical responders.

Timeline of the Incident

On Monday afternoon, Birmingham Police and emergency medical teams were dispatched to the site of a collision in the eastern section of the city. The call came in just after 2:15 p.m., with initial reports describing a major crash involving two passenger vehicles. Witnesses stated that the accident occurred in a densely trafficked corridor where speeds can be high and visibility occasionally compromised due to layout and ongoing traffic.

Upon arrival, officers encountered a scene marked by significant wreckage. The two vehicles were severely damaged, with one overturned and the other resting at an angle across multiple lanes. Skid marks extended more than 50 feet along the roadway, suggesting that at least one of the drivers attempted to brake moments before impact.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel worked swiftly to extricate the drivers. Cheryl Denise Irby, the driver of one vehicle, was found unresponsive and showing no signs of life. Paramedics administered CPR at the scene before transporting her to UAB Hospital, where she was officially declared deceased. The driver of the other vehicle, an adult individual whose name and age remain undisclosed at this time, succumbed to injuries at the crash site.

A Life Remembered: Cheryl Denise Irby

Cheryl Denise Irby was much more than a statistic or headline. A mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Irby was known in the Center Point neighborhood as a pillar of generosity, faith, and unwavering family values. Her gentle demeanor was matched only by her fierce loyalty to her loved ones, many of whom are still in disbelief following the news of her passing.

Relatives describe Irby as someone who always made time for others, whether by lending a listening ear, preparing home-cooked meals for neighbors in need, or volunteering at local church events. She had worked for years in the healthcare field, where she offered care and comfort to patients and co-workers alike.

“She was the kind of person who remembered your birthday, even if she hadn’t seen you in years,” said her niece, Monique Irby. “She had a spirit that filled up a room, not with noise, but with presence—calm, strong, and loving.”

Friends have taken to social media to share tributes, many of which include photos of Irby at family reunions, church picnics, or holding the hand of one of her grandchildren. Her impact on the lives around her is being honored not only in words but also through acts of kindness being carried out in her memory. A candlelight vigil is being planned near the site of the crash, as well as a memorial service that will likely draw mourners from across the region.

The Ongoing Police Investigation

The Birmingham Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the crash. At this time, several key questions remain unanswered: What led to the collision? Was speed, distraction, or mechanical failure a contributing factor? Was visibility a concern, or were environmental conditions such as road surface or sun glare involved?

Police officials have not yet disclosed which vehicle may have initiated the collision, nor whether any external elements such as traffic light failure or unexpected obstructions played a role.

As part of the investigative process, officers are reviewing traffic camera footage from nearby intersections, analyzing skid marks and debris patterns, and collecting statements from any eyewitnesses who observed the crash or its immediate aftermath. Forensic experts are expected to conduct thorough inspections of both vehicles involved, checking for signs of mechanical issues or driver error.

Autopsies and standard toxicology screenings will be conducted on both drivers, per department protocol, though there is currently no public indication of impairment or criminal intent.

Investigators have asked anyone with dashcam footage or relevant information about the incident to come forward.

Community Reaction and Support

The loss of Cheryl Denise Irby has touched a deep emotional chord in Birmingham and surrounding communities. Local leaders and clergy members have extended heartfelt condolences to the Irby family, praising her decades of dedication to community welfare and her role as a quiet yet powerful leader in her circle.

Center Point Mayor Bobby Scott released a statement describing Irby as “a woman of principle and heart whose quiet acts of kindness helped shape the spirit of our community.”

Pastor Raymond Keller of New Light Baptist Church, where Irby had been a longtime member, also offered public remarks: “Sister Cheryl was one of those rare souls who didn’t just speak love—she lived it. She gave of herself, over and over, without ever asking for anything in return. Her faith was deep, and her heart even deeper.”

Faith-based organizations, including Irby’s church, have mobilized to provide grief counseling and support to the family. Local nonprofits are also stepping in to assist with memorial expenses, and a GoFundMe campaign has already been set up by friends and family to help cover funeral arrangements and support Irby’s surviving relatives.

Calls for Road Safety Reform

The tragic nature of this crash has reignited calls among Birmingham residents and advocacy groups for enhanced traffic safety measures in the area. Many have pointed out that this particular stretch of roadway has been the site of previous incidents, including rear-end collisions and side-impact crashes.

Community members have urged city officials to conduct a full traffic assessment of the corridor, citing speeding concerns, poorly marked intersections, and insufficient pedestrian signaling. Several neighbors have suggested the addition of traffic calming infrastructure, such as speed bumps, warning signs, or increased patrol presence.

Transportation safety advocates are also requesting the installation of red-light cameras and real-time traffic monitors to reduce high-speed driving and intersection hazards.

A Lasting Legacy

Although the sudden loss of Cheryl Denise Irby is deeply painful, those who knew her are choosing to focus on the profound legacy she leaves behind. Her children and grandchildren now carry forward her values—her compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment to faith and family.

In the coming days, the Irby family will announce details of a public memorial. Already, many have pledged to attend in honor of a woman whose life was marked by selflessness and quiet resilience.

A scholarship fund is also being considered in her name, potentially benefiting young people in Birmingham who pursue careers in healthcare, a field Irby held close to her heart.

Final Reflections

This tragic crash on June 9, 2025, has brought sorrow and reflection to Birmingham. As investigators work to uncover the full sequence of events, and as family and community begin the long process of healing, one truth is already clear: Cheryl Denise Irby was cherished, respected, and profoundly loved.

She will not be remembered by the manner of her passing, but by the beauty and impact of her life. In every person she helped, every prayer she offered, and every kind word she spoke, her legacy continues to shine.

For updates and official information from the Birmingham Police Department, visit [insert city department website or news link]

Tags: Cheryl Denise Irby, Birmingham crash, Center Point woman, fatal collision Alabama, Birmingham Police investigation, June 9 accident, community tribute Birmingham, traffic safety Alabama