ELBA, Ala. — The Troy and Coffee County communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Mr. Robert Lane Fennell, a hardworking truck driver whose life was tragically cut short in a single-vehicle crash late Friday night.
Fennell, 56, was traveling westbound on U.S. Highway 84, just outside Elba, when his semi-truck left the roadway and overturned into a creek near the city-limits sign. The accident occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. on August 22, 2025. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, Fennell was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A Dedicated Worker and Family Man
Those who knew Robert remember him not only as a skilled and dependable truck driver, but also as a kindhearted man who loved his family deeply. Friends and colleagues describe him as someone who could be counted on—both on the road and in life.
“He was always working hard, always making sure things were done right,” one family friend shared. “But more than that, he cared about people. He was the kind of man who left a positive mark wherever he went.”
A Night of Tragedy
The crash brought a massive emergency response. Agencies including the Elba Fire Department, Opp Fire Department, Dothan Fire Department HazMat Team, Coffee County Emergency Management Agency, New Brockton Fire Department, Enterprise Rescue, and ALDOT all rushed to the scene.
Hazardous materials teams were deployed as a safety measure due to the nature of the crash.
The incident is currently under investigation by the Elba Police Department, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the 12th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Coffee County Coroner’s Office.
Words From the Community
Coffee County Coroner Arnold Woodham extended heartfelt condolences to the Fennell family, saying:
“This is a tragic incident, and we ask the community to keep the family and friends of Mr. Fennell in your prayers as they navigate this unexpected loss.”
Neighbors and loved ones have echoed those words, expressing sorrow and disbelief at the sudden loss.
Honoring His Legacy
Robert Lane Fennell will be remembered as more than the victim of a tragic accident. He will be remembered as a man of strength, humility, and devotion—qualities that carried him through his work on the road and his life at home.
His sudden passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we love.
As family, friends, and colleagues grieve, they also celebrate his life and the impact he made. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.