The Leeds community is grieving the tragic loss of April Ballard, 37, of Leeds, who was killed in a devastating wrong-way crash early Friday morning, April 24, on Interstate 65 in Pelham.
According to the Shelby County Coroner’s Office, Ballard was driving a truck southbound when it entered the northbound lanes of I-65 around 3 a.m., leading to a head-on collision. Authorities say her vehicle struck a 2012 Honda Accord driven by 20-year-old Jesse Southard of Birmingham.
The impact was catastrophic, leaving both drivers fatally injured. Ballard was pronounced deceased at the scene, along with Southard, who also died following the crash.
The collision caused a full shutdown of the northbound lanes of I-65 between the Tank Farm exit and the Oak Mountain State Park exit for several hours. Emergency crews worked through the early morning to secure the scene, assist the injured, and investigate the circumstances surrounding the wreck.
As word of Ballard’s passing spread, family, friends, and members of the Leeds community were left heartbroken and stunned by the sudden loss. Those who knew her are remembering her with love and sorrow, reflecting on her life, her presence, and the deep pain left behind.
Authorities have not yet released details explaining why Ballard’s vehicle entered the wrong direction, and the crash remains under active investigation.
In the days following the tragedy, loved ones are leaning on each other for strength as they navigate overwhelming grief. The loss of April Ballard has left a lasting impact on the Leeds community, where she is being remembered with compassion and respect.
Officials say further updates will be released as investigators continue working to determine the full sequence of events that led to the fatal crash.
