LIMESTONE COUNTY, AL (May 7, 2025) — William Hardrick, 22, of Austin Peay State University, and three others killed in a tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 65
LIMESTONE COUNTY, AL (May 7, 2025) — William Hardrick, 22, of Austin Peay State University, and three others killed in a tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 65, Limestone County. The crash also claimed the lives of 29-year-old Sarah Thompson, 33-year-old Marcus Greene, and 51-year-old Jennifer Cruz. Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the collision that took the lives of four individuals, one of whom was a promising football player with a bright future.
A heart-wrenching tragedy occurred earlier this week in Limestone County, Alabama, when a catastrophic multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 65 resulted in the deaths of four individuals. The accident, which unfolded on May 5, 2025, left the local community in shock, mourning the loss of those involved. Among the victims was William Hardrick, a 22-year-old athlete from Austin Peay State University, whose promising future in football was abruptly cut short. The crash also claimed the lives of Sarah Thompson, Marcus Greene, and Jennifer Cruz, leaving their families and friends devastated.
Authorities are working to piece together the details of the tragic crash, which occurred on a busy stretch of the interstate. The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, with law enforcement agencies and crash reconstruction specialists working tirelessly to uncover more information about what led to such a devastating accident.
The Lives Lost: William Hardrick
William Hardrick, the youngest victim of the crash, was a rising star in collegiate football. The 22-year-old had recently completed his junior year at Austin Peay State University in Tennessee, where he played as a wide receiver for the Governors. Hardrick was known for his speed, agility, and remarkable athleticism, qualities that made him a standout on the field. His potential had drawn attention from scouts and coaches alike, with many believing he had a future in professional football.
Off the field, Hardrick was described as a humble and hardworking individual, someone who balanced his academic responsibilities with his athletic commitments. His family, friends, and teammates have all spoken fondly of him, recalling his positive attitude, his sense of humor, and his determination to succeed. He was especially known for his close-knit relationship with his teammates, and his absence has left a significant void in the Austin Peay community.
Hardrick’s football career had been on an upward trajectory, and he had big dreams of playing in the NFL. His passing has left a mark on both the university and the local community in Clarksville, Tennessee, where he had become a beloved figure. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the college sports world, as many continue to express their sorrow and disbelief over the untimely loss of such a bright young talent.
Sarah Thompson: A Life Cut Short
Sarah Thompson, a 29-year-old marketing executive, was another victim of the crash. Thompson, originally from Birmingham, Alabama, had recently moved to Huntsville, where she was making a name for herself in the corporate world. Known for her intelligence and ambition, Sarah had quickly climbed the ranks in her company and was poised for further professional success. Friends and colleagues have described her as a determined and driven individual, someone who always went above and beyond to achieve her goals.
Outside of work, Sarah was known for her love of travel, fitness, and spending time with family and friends. She had recently returned from a trip abroad, where she had explored Europe, and was eager to start planning her next adventure. Sarah’s family has expressed their deep grief over her death, describing her as a loving daughter, sister, and friend. Her passing has left a significant impact on her workplace, where she was well-liked and respected.
Marcus Greene: A Family Man
Marcus Greene, a 33-year-old father of two, was another victim of the crash. Greene, originally from Decatur, Alabama, had worked as a contractor for the past decade and was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his family. He was a devoted father to his two young children, ages 5 and 7, and his passing has left his family heartbroken.
Friends and family members have shared stories of Greene’s generosity and kindness, remembering him as someone who was always willing to lend a hand to others. He was an active member of his local church and community, where he was involved in various charitable efforts. Marcus was also known for his love of sports, particularly basketball, and spent many weekends coaching his children’s youth teams. His death has left his family in a state of shock, as they struggle to cope with the loss of a man who was at the center of their lives.
Jennifer Cruz: A Compassionate Nurse
Jennifer Cruz, 51, was a nurse at Huntsville Hospital and the fourth victim of the tragic crash. Cruz, a seasoned healthcare professional, had dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She had worked in the intensive care unit (ICU) for over two decades, earning a reputation for her compassion and expertise. Cruz’s colleagues have described her as an exceptional nurse, someone who always put her patients’ needs first and went above and beyond in her work.
Outside of her career, Jennifer was a mother to three grown children and a grandmother to two young grandchildren. She had recently become a grandmother for the second time, and her family was excited to celebrate many more milestones together. Jennifer had a passion for gardening and enjoyed spending time outdoors, often tending to her garden with her grandchildren by her side. Her family has spoken of her kindness, her nurturing spirit, and her unyielding dedication to her work and loved ones. Her death has left a void in the healthcare community, where she was a well-respected figure.
The Crash: A Devastating Sequence of Events
The accident occurred at approximately 3:30 PM on May 5, 2025, along the southbound lanes of Interstate 65 near the 340-mile marker in Limestone County, Alabama. Authorities believe that a series of events led to the tragic collision, but the exact sequence of events remains unclear at this time.
What is known is that the crash involved at least three vehicles, including a semi-truck, an SUV, and a passenger car. Initial reports suggest that the semi-truck may have lost control, possibly due to a mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions, before colliding with the SUV driven by Sarah Thompson. The impact of the crash caused the SUV to spin out of control and cross into the opposite lanes of traffic, where it was struck by the vehicle carrying Marcus Greene and Jennifer Cruz. Hardrick, who was traveling separately, is believed to have been in a third vehicle involved in the crash, but the exact details of his vehicle’s involvement are still under investigation.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes of the crash, but the extent of the damage and the number of individuals involved made it a challenging operation. Despite the best efforts of first responders, including firefighters, paramedics, and local law enforcement, four people were pronounced dead at the scene. Several others sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have stated that they are working closely with crash reconstruction experts to determine whether there were any contributing factors, such as road conditions, driver error, or mechanical failure.
The Aftermath: A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left the Limestone County community in mourning, with friends, family, and colleagues of the victims coming to terms with their losses. Local officials have expressed their condolences, offering support to the families affected by the accident.
In Austin Peay, where William Hardrick was a beloved student-athlete, the university has announced plans for a memorial service in his honor. The athletic department, along with fellow students and faculty members, is organizing a tribute to Hardrick, whose life was cut tragically short just as his future appeared bright. The loss of Hardrick has been particularly difficult for his teammates, who have described him as an inspiring figure and a true leader on and off the field.
In Huntsville, Sarah Thompson’s workplace has held a memorial service in her honor, remembering her accomplishments as both a professional and a person. Thompson’s colleagues have vowed to continue her work, with many pledging to uphold the values she brought to the office and the community. Thompson’s family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time, noting that it has helped them begin to heal.
Marcus Greene’s family has started a fundraising campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support his children’s education, acknowledging that their lives will never be the same without him. Greene’s friends and family are planning a memorial basketball game in his honor, a fitting tribute to the man who loved the sport and was always there to support others.
Jennifer Cruz’s colleagues at Huntsville Hospital have organized a charity drive in her name, with the funds going toward a healthcare foundation that supports nurses and their families. Cruz’s family has spoken of their grief and how they are working together to honor her memory, with plans for a community gathering to celebrate her life and legacy.
Investigations and Future Actions
In the wake of this devastating accident, authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is working closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to analyze the wreckage and determine the precise factors that led to the tragedy. In addition to investigating the role of the semi-truck, ALEA is also looking into whether there were any signs of distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, which could have contributed to the deadly incident.
The families of the victims have expressed their desire for answers, seeking justice and closure in the wake of this senseless tragedy. While no charges have been filed at this time, authorities have pledged to continue their thorough investigation and provide updates as they become available.
In the meantime, the Limestone County community, along with the families of the victims, continues to mourn the loss of four lives that were taken far too soon. As they grapple with their grief, they are also coming together to support one another and honor the memories of those who were lost.
