Double Tragedy on Highway 231: Troy Mourns Wiley Morse After Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision

TROY, AL (May 26, 2025) — A tight-knit Alabama community is heartbroken and searching for answers following the tragic and untimely death of 47-year-old Wiley Morse, a well-known and beloved local man who was fatally struck by two vehicles on Sunday night. The harrowing incident occurred along U.S. Highway 231 near mile marker 173, roughly three miles south of downtown Troy. As details continue to emerge, questions are being raised about the circumstances of the crash and the responsibility of those involved.

According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the fatal collision took place late Sunday, May 25, shortly after 11:00 p.m. Preliminary reports indicate that Morse was walking along or attempting to cross the southbound lanes of the highway when he was hit by the first vehicle. Moments later, while Morse was still on the roadway, a second vehicle struck him again, causing fatal injuries. Authorities confirmed that Morse was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two-Vehicle Impact Raises Concerns

ALEA Troopers and Pike County emergency responders were dispatched immediately following multiple 911 calls reporting a person being hit by a vehicle. The scene was described by first responders as “chaotic and emotionally difficult,” as several motorists pulled over in distress and traffic was diverted for several hours into the early morning.

Investigators have yet to publicly name the drivers of the vehicles involved, but they did confirm that both drivers remained on the scene and have been cooperating with authorities. No charges have been filed as of Monday morning, but officials have not ruled out the possibility of future legal action depending on the results of the investigation.

“Our thoughts are with the family of Mr. Wiley Morse during this incredibly difficult time,” said ALEA Trooper Sgt. Jeremy Burkett. “We are working diligently to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine all contributing factors to this tragic incident.”

Community in Mourning

News of Morse’s sudden death has rocked the Troy community, where he was known for his kindness, humility, and willingness to help others. Friends and neighbors described him as a hardworking man who had recently fallen on hard times but remained deeply connected to his roots and those who cared about him.

“He was the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back,” said longtime friend and coworker Carl Henderson. “Wiley might have been going through some struggles, but he didn’t deserve to die like that—alone on a highway.”

Local clergy, including Reverend Myles Pickens of Mount Olive Baptist Church, have reached out to offer grief counseling and support services to residents impacted by the tragedy. “This is a loss that cuts deep,” Pickens said. “We are praying for Wiley’s family and calling on our community to come together in unity, compassion, and strength.”

Family Demands Accountability

Members of Morse’s family are now demanding a full investigation into the events that led to his death. In an emotional statement to local reporters, his sister, Teresa Morse, expressed anger and frustration with what she described as “a system that doesn’t always protect people like Wiley.”

“We want to know what happened. Why was he on that road? Were those drivers speeding? Was there anything that could have been done to avoid hitting him twice?” she asked, visibly shaken. “He wasn’t just some stranger. He was a brother, an uncle, a man who mattered.”

The family has hired legal counsel to explore their options and plans to push for greater transparency from ALEA as the investigation progresses.

Calls for Highway Safety Improvements

The fatality has also renewed public outcry over traffic safety on the stretch of Highway 231 near Troy, which has seen several pedestrian-related incidents over the past few years. Locals have frequently complained about poor lighting, limited pedestrian access, and high-speed driving conditions.

City Councilwoman Patrice Dalton addressed the issue during an emergency meeting on Monday morning. “How many more lives have to be lost before we act? We need lighting. We need signage. We need real investments in safety on this highway,” she declared.

Dalton confirmed that a proposal is being drafted to request state funding for improved infrastructure along the stretch of highway where Morse was killed. The proposal would include solar-powered lighting, additional patrols during nighttime hours, and barriers to prevent pedestrians from attempting dangerous crossings.

Investigation Ongoing

As of now, ALEA troopers continue to gather witness statements, review surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and examine forensic evidence from both vehicles involved in the crash. Toxicology reports for both drivers have been requested, although there has been no indication so far that drugs or alcohol were factors.

Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or observed Morse in the area before the crash to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through ALEA or the Pike County Sheriff’s Office.

A City in Grief

As the investigation continues, the city of Troy is left grappling with grief and uncertainty. A candlelight vigil is being planned for Thursday evening in downtown Troy to honor Morse’s memory and advocate for safer conditions on Highway 231. The event is expected to draw dozens of supporters, including civic leaders, local pastors, and members of Morse’s family.

For many, Wiley Morse’s death is not just a statistic—it is a tragic reminder of the vulnerability faced by those on the margins, and of the urgent need for change.

“He was a good man. And he should still be here,” said family friend Darlene Hughes, wiping away tears. “Now we have to make sure his death wasn’t in vain.”

If you have any information about this incident, please contact ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division or the Pike County Sheriff’s Office.

Stay with us for further updates on this developing story.