In a tragic incident on Tuesday around 4:08 PM, emergency responders from the Florence Police Department, Florence Fire Department, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, and Lifeguard EMS rushed to the intersection of Florence Boulevard and Sweetwater Avenue following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of two individuals. The victims were identified as David Terry, a dedicated twenty-six-year veteran of the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, and Dawn Buchanan, a 57-year-old resident of Florence.
Preliminary reports suggest that Buchanan was traveling east on Florence Boulevard when a vehicle exiting Sweetwater Avenue failed to yield the right of way. In an attempt to avoid the oncoming vehicle, Buchanan swerved, leading to a loss of control over her vehicle. Tragically, her vehicle crossed the median into the westbound lanes of Florence Boulevard, resulting in a devastating collision with Terry’s vehicle.
Both David Terry and Dawn Buchanan were tragically pronounced deceased at the scene by Lauderdale Coroner Kim Jones. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward and provide any relevant information by contacting the Florence Police Department at 256.760.6561. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance while driving.