MOBILE, AL — A devastating single-vehicle crash claimed the life of 60-year-old Mart A. Reed on Sunday afternoon in Mobile. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reported the accident occurred at approximately 2 p.m. on December 8, 2024, along Salco Road near Forest Drive.
According to ALEA, Reed was driving a 2012 Buick LaCrosse when the vehicle veered off the road, descended an embankment, struck a utility pole, and overturned. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite their efforts, Reed was pronounced dead on-site.
Investigators revealed that Reed was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. Authorities believe this may have contributed to the severity of the crash and the fatal outcome. ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
The tragic accident underscores the critical importance of seatbelt use. Statistics consistently show that wearing a seatbelt can reduce the risk of fatal injuries in a crash by nearly 45%. As such, ALEA is using this incident to remind drivers and passengers alike of the life-saving benefits of buckling up.
While the investigation remains ongoing, no additional details regarding possible contributing factors, such as speed or road conditions, have been released. ALEA is working to piece together the events leading up to the crash to provide clarity to Reed’s family and the public.
As the Mobile community mourns the sudden loss of Mart A. Reed, this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of road travel and the importance of adhering to safety measures. Authorities continue to stress the need for vigilance and precaution to prevent such tragedies in the future.