Thomas Butler Jr. Killed in Madison County Hit-and-Run Ac...
Troopers are searching for a black Toyota 4Runner that fled the scene near Rustic Cedar Lane
Thomas Butler Jr., 16, was killed in a hit-and-run crash on Capshaw Road near Rustic Cedar Lane in Madison County on Aug. 13, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
Butler's mother, Taisha Butler, described her son as a young man with dreams of becoming a preacher or joining the military. A GoFundMe page has been established to support the family and honor his memory.
Troopers are searching for a black Toyota 4Runner believed to have struck the teenager and fled the scene. The driver failed to stop and render aid after the collision. Investigators are urging anyone with information about the suspect vehicle to contact the Decatur Highway Patrol Post.
No arrests have been made.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,758 hit-and-run traffic fatalities occurred nationwide in 2024.
The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit-and-run leaves families grappling with deep grief and unanswered questions. While investigators work to identify the driver who fled, legal professionals emphasize the importance of independent evidence gathering to protect the rights of the victim's family.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can make or break a catastrophic roadway investigation, yet most systems overwrite recordings within days. Once footage disappears, identifying a fleeing motorist becomes dramatically harder, leaving surviving relatives without answers for months."
"A legal team moves fast to request recordings, understanding timing matters when fragile digital evidence sits days from permanent deletion," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
How are hit-and-run accidents investigated on Capshaw Road?
What legal options exist for families of hit-and-run victims?
Alabama wrongful death statute
Under Ala. Code § 6-5-410, surviving family members of a person killed in a traffic collision may file a wrongful death action in Alabama. The state applies contributory negligence (one of only 4 states) when determining liability. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages under Alabama's wrongful death statute may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship and consortium, funeral and burial expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering. Alabama law designates specific parties — typically a surviving spouse, children, or parents — as eligible to bring a wrongful death action.
"When a driver flees a fatal crash, surviving relatives often worry they will have no legal recourse or way to cover sudden final expenses," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal.
Formica, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, noted, "Legal counsel aids affected families by carefully examining their existing insurance policies for uninsured motorist coverage, providing clear direction and financial security during an otherwise overwhelming period."