A tragic highway accident in Dothan, Alabama, claimed the life of 51-year-old Evelio DeJesus, a respected truck driver from Sebastian, Florida. The fatal crash occurred early Thursday morning, February 12, 2026, along U.S. Highway 231 near the 48-mile marker in Dale County. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), DeJesus was operating an 18-wheeler when the vehicle veered off the northbound lanes and crashed into a wooded area near the highway.
Emergency services, including the Marley Mill Volunteer Fire Department and the Dothan Fire Department, responded to the scene around 6:13 a.m. after receiving reports of a single-vehicle crash. Upon arrival, first responders found the semi-truck had left the roadway and collided with a dense treeline. The wreckage was extensive, and responders worked for hours to access the vehicle and confirm there were no additional victims trapped inside.
The truck, which was not carrying hazardous materials, had to be carefully examined to ensure safety before recovery operations could begin. Coroner John Cawley later confirmed the identity of the deceased as Evelio DeJesus. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash led to the closure of both northbound lanes of Highway 231 for several hours as authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the wreckage.
DeJesus was known in his hometown of Sebastian as a dedicated family man and a seasoned truck driver with years of experience on the road. News of his sudden passing has deeply affected his family, friends, and colleagues, many of whom have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes and memories. His commitment to his work and his role as a father and husband were often praised by those who knew him best.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet determined whether mechanical failure, medical emergency, or other factors contributed to the vehicle leaving the roadway. Toxicology tests and a full mechanical inspection of the truck are expected to provide further insight in the coming weeks.
As the community mourns the loss of Evelio DeJesus, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by long-haul drivers and the importance of road safety. His family is receiving support from local organizations and fellow drivers, who are rallying to honor his memory and legacy.