Heartbreak in Hartselle: Families Speak After Deadly Teen Crash

Heartbreak in Hartselle: Families Speak After Deadly Teen Crash

HARTSELLE, Ala. — A community is mourning after 17-year-old Tristan Hollis was killed in a crash that his family calls both “horrific” and “senseless.”

Authorities say the tragedy unfolded when Priceville Police attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Archie Brandon Hale. Hale refused to pull over, leading officers on a chase that ended when he collided with a minivan in Hartselle carrying Hollis and three other teens.

Hollis’ mother, Rachel Moore, shared her grief publicly, describing him as her only child. “Yes, he selfishly and maliciously took my son’s life, but in the end, my son is in a far better place than what is about to be bestowed amongst him,” she wrote, also asking for prayers for all families involved—including Hale’s.

Six people were injured in total: Hale, his passenger, Hollis, and three boys in the minivan identified as Braxton Wales, 16-year-old Noah Prater, and 14-year-old Gavin Prater.

Wales’ uncle, Kevin Pylant, called the tragedy life-altering. “One child has lost his life, and three teenagers’ lives have been changed forever,” he said, adding that Braxton is recovering but faces a long road ahead. He emphasized that beyond physical recovery, the emotional toll will be immense and urged continued prayers.

The Prater brothers’ grandmother said her heart is broken for Hollis’ family as she stays by Noah’s hospital bedside while Gavin’s father tends to him at another facility.

Hollis will be laid to rest Thursday at Hartselle City Cemetery.