ADAMSVILLE, Alabama — Brianna Sanea Hawkins, a 19‑year‑old from Dora, was killed early Friday morning in a multi‑vehicle collision that left a community shaken and families searching for answers. Hawkins was identified by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office after the crash at the intersection of U.S. Highway 78 and Minor Parkway around 5:33 a.m. on January 16, 2026.
Friends and family remember Brianna as someone who lit up every room she stepped into. She was one of two people in the vehicle involved in the wreck, and despite the swift response of first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene at 5:50 a.m. The impact of her loss continues to ripple through her hometown of Dora and the wider Jefferson County.
The others involved in the crash have not been publicly identified, and authorities have not shared details about their current conditions. Officials have kept the number of vehicles in the wreck and the status of other motorists confidential as the investigation continues.
U.S. Highway 78 is known for heavy commuter traffic, especially in the early morning hours. It’s the main artery that links Birmingham with Adamsville, Dora, and other surrounding communities. Drivers familiar with the stretch know how fast traffic flows before sunrise, making any sudden collision especially chaotic.
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The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into what caused the crash. At this stage, investigators are expected to review vehicle damage, roadway conditions, and witness accounts. Officials have not publicly commented on whether weather, speed, impairment, or other factors played a role.
Emergency crews worked through the morning to secure the scene and assist those involved. Traffic was rerouted as law enforcement and rescue teams combed the area for evidence and cleared wreckage. Community members watched anxiously as news spread, many sharing their support for Hawkins’ loved ones.
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The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has yet to release additional details about the official cause of death beyond confirming Hawkins was pronounced dead at the scene. Her passing serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life on busy roadways and the far‑reaching impact of tragedy on small communities.
