Two women — Carolyn Elaine Berry, 47, and Aldereka Laqulla Ikes, 36, both of Birmingham — were killed early Friday morning in a tragic collision after authorities say the vehicle they were traveling in drove around a railroad crossing arm and was struck by a train, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 1:46 a.m. in the 1000 block of 24th Street S.W. Authorities said a minivan carrying Berry, Ikes, and several children entered the railroad crossing despite the safety arm being down. Moments later, the vehicle was struck by a Norfolk Southern freight train, resulting in catastrophic damage.
Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates confirmed that both women were pronounced dead at the scene at 2:34 a.m. Their deaths were immediate, leaving behind grieving families and a shaken community.
In addition to the two fatalities, four children who were inside the minivan were transported to Children’s of Alabama hospital for treatment. As of the latest update, the extent and severity of their injuries had not been released. Authorities have not disclosed the ages of the children or their current conditions.
Emergency responders, including police, fire crews, and medical personnel, rushed to the scene following the collision. The area was temporarily shut down as investigators worked to document evidence and clear the wreckage from the tracks. The train involved in the crash came to a stop following the impact, and no injuries were reported among the train crew.
Officials have not released additional details regarding the moments leading up to the crash, including why the vehicle went around the crossing arm. The incident remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to review railroad crossing signals, train data, and witness statements as part of the inquiry.
The sudden loss of Carolyn Elaine Berry and Aldereka Laqulla Ikes has left loved ones mourning and searching for answers. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on the recovery of the injured children and supporting the families affected by this devastating tragedy.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.