BESSEMER, Ala — Tragic Early-Morning Crash Claims the Lives of Two Local Men, Leaving Community Heartbroken
The city of Bessemer is mourning the devastating loss of two beloved residents following a fatal crash that occurred early Sunday morning, November 9, 2025. Authorities have confirmed the victims as 50-year-old Charles Devon Lockett and 35-year-old Denterrius Deon Hill, both lifelong residents of Bessemer who were well known in their community.
According to the Bessemer Police Department and the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, officers and emergency crews responded to the scene of the accident shortly after 2:30 a.m. near the intersection of Fourth Avenue Southwest and Ninth Street. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a severely damaged vehicle that had left the roadway and collided with a utility pole. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators believe the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed when the driver lost control, causing the car to veer off the road and crash. The impact was so severe that the vehicle was almost unrecognizable, prompting firefighters to use extraction tools to reach the victims. Officials have not yet released which of the two men was driving at the time of the accident, and toxicology results are pending as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police say there were no other vehicles involved, and no witnesses have yet come forward to indicate that another driver played a role in the crash. Investigators are working to determine whether weather, road conditions, or impairment may have been contributing factors.
“This is an incredibly tragic situation,” said Sgt. Bryan Jackson of the Bessemer Police Department. “Two lives were lost in an instant, and two families are now grieving deeply. We are doing everything we can to determine exactly what happened in those final moments.”
The news of the fatal crash has sent shockwaves throughout the Bessemer community, where both victims were known and loved. Charles Lockett, known to friends as “Devon,” was described as a hardworking, dependable man with a heart of gold. He had worked for years in local manufacturing and was deeply devoted to his family and church.
“He was the kind of person who would give you his last dollar if you needed it,” said one family friend. “Always smiling, always helping others. It just doesn’t feel real that he’s gone.”
Denterrius “Deon” Hill, meanwhile, was remembered as a spirited, outgoing man who loved music, sports, and spending time with his children. Friends said he was the life of the party — someone who could make anyone laugh and brighten even the darkest day.
“Deon was full of energy and love,” said his cousin. “He loved his kids more than anything. This loss is just unbearable.”
Family members of both victims gathered near the crash site Sunday evening, lighting candles and placing flowers and balloons at a growing roadside memorial. Tears flowed freely as loved ones hugged, prayed, and shared memories of the two men whose lives ended far too soon.
“This is such a painful reminder of how fragile life is,” said a local pastor who led a short vigil at the site. “In just one moment, everything can change. Two families are shattered, two communities are grieving. We must come together now to lift them up in prayer and support.”
As investigators continue to piece together the details, police are urging drivers across the region to stay alert and cautious, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced. The Bessemer Police Department also reminded the public of the importance of seatbelts, speed awareness, and sober driving.
Both families are now preparing for funeral arrangements and have asked the public for continued prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Loved ones have also launched community fundraisers to assist with burial expenses and to support the children left behind.
“Charles and Deon were more than just names in a headline — they were fathers, sons, brothers, and friends,” said one relative. “Their lives mattered, and their memory will never fade.”
As Bessemer comes to terms with this heartbreaking tragedy, the community stands united in remembrance and sorrow, holding onto the cherished moments that defined the lives of Charles Devon Lockett and Denterrius Deon Hill — two souls gone far too soon, but never forgotten.
🕯️ Rest in peace, Charles and Deon. Your spirits will live on in the hearts of those who loved you most.
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