Chickasaw Man Killed in Baldwin County Crash Remembered as Beloved Community Member

Chickasaw Man Killed in Baldwin County Crash Remembered as Beloved Community Member

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. — A devastating accident along Interstate 65 has claimed the life of 65-year-old Thomas Oliver Swindle Jr. of Chickasaw, leaving family, friends, and community members heartbroken.

The fatal crash happened shortly after 4 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, near the 35-mile marker. According to investigators, the Jeep Cherokee carrying Swindle suddenly veered off the interstate and struck a tree. Emergency responders arrived to find Swindle trapped in the overturned vehicle. Despite their immediate efforts, he could not be saved.

The driver, identified as Leila M. Clevland of Selma, survived the crash and was transported to University Hospital for treatment of her injuries. Authorities with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) spent hours at the scene, examining skid marks and collecting evidence as they continue investigating the circumstances of the accident, including the possibility of speed, mechanical failure, or distraction.

Swindle’s passing has left a deep void in the Chickasaw community, where he was known as a man who brought people together with warmth and kindness. Friends and neighbors have described him as someone whose presence left lasting impressions, always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

As the investigation continues, the community is uniting to honor his contributions and support his loved ones. Many have offered prayers, sympathy, and heartfelt condolences to the Swindle family, emphasizing that he will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

“Our community has lost more than a neighbor—we’ve lost a friend, a mentor, and a light in our lives,” one community member shared.

Authorities have not released further updates on the investigation.