Janice W. Bullard; Talladega woman dies in crash after hitting horse in Coosa County.
Janice W. Bullard – A tragic accident on a Coosa County roadway claimed the life of a Talladega woman after her vehicle collided with a horse. The victim, identified as 63-year-old Janice W. Bullard, was a passenger in a Chrysler 200 when the crash occurred on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at approximately 11:40 p.m. The incident took place on U.S. Highway 231, about eight miles south of Rockford.
According to Lt. Jeremy Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the Chrysler 200 struck a horse that was standing in the road. Following the initial collision with the horse, the vehicle veered off the roadway and collided with a large rock. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Bullard, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The horse also died from the impact of the crash. The driver of the Chrysler, 47-year-old Angela M. Lackey, and another passenger, 67-year-old Nina S. Lackey, were both transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been released, but authorities have confirmed that both are receiving medical attention.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by ALEA troopers, who are working to determine the cause of the incident. While no further details have been released, the tragic crash highlights the dangers of wildlife or animals crossing roadways, particularly in rural areas with limited lighting and visibility.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of seatbelt use while driving, as it is not known if the lack of seatbelt use contributed to the fatality. Officials have expressed condolences to Bullard’s family and loved ones as they mourn her loss.
The community of Talladega has been left in shock and sadness following the accident. As investigators continue to probe the details of the crash, many are reflecting on the dangers posed by animals on roadways and the need for caution, particularly during late-night hours when visibility is reduced.
At this time, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is continuing its investigation into the tragic crash, and authorities have yet to release any additional information regarding potential factors that may have contributed to the collision.
