Harber’s Wrangler was struck by a Grand Cherokee in Summerdale
November 21, 2025 | Summerdale, AL
A tragic collision in Summerdale claimed the life of 67-year-old Thomas B. Harber on Friday evening, prompting an arrest for vehicular manslaughter, as reported by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
Thomas B. Harber, 67, died after a Grand Cherokee struck his Jeep Wrangler at Sanborn Avenue and Baldwin County 73 in Summerdale.
What Happened in the Crash?
The incident unfolded around 6:30 p.m. at the intersection of Sanborn Avenue and Baldwin County Road 73. Harber was operating a 2018 Jeep Wrangler when it was struck by a 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a 56-year-old Summerdale resident.
- Victim: Thomas B. Harber, 67, of Summerdale, ejected from his vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.
- Suspect: 56-year-old Summerdale driver, transported to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center for treatment before being booked into Baldwin County Jail on vehicular manslaughter charges.
- Vehicles Involved: 2018 Jeep Wrangler and 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Investigating Agency: ALEA's Highway Patrol Division.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Traffic fatalities have surged due to various factors, primarily driver-related behaviors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 8,000 lives were lost in motor vehicle collisions in the first quarter of 2025 alone.
Common contributors to such wrecks include:
- Speeding and aggressive driving.
- Impairment from alcohol or drugs.
- Distracted driving, often linked to cellphone use.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and enforcement.
Factor |
Contribution to Fatalities (NHTSA Data, Q1 2025) |
Source |
|---|
Speeding |
29% of crashes |
NHTSA |
DUI |
25% of fatalities |
CDC |
Distraction |
8% of incidents |
Federal Highway Administration |
Other (e.g., weather) |
38% combined |
NHTSA |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, independent investigations play a crucial role alongside official efforts. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, stresses the importance of thorough reviews.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond, a national analyst for Newsline. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this one, and the victim’s family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently.”
Key takeaways:
- Prompt action preserves critical evidence like witness statements and digital records.
- Legal guidance helps navigate complex liability determinations.
- Families may pursue claims for wrongful death to address losses in companionship and emotional distress.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlights the dual emotional and economic impacts of such tragedies.
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Formica. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve. Insurance companies may try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge of the law and offer a low settlement or deny your claim altogether. An attorney can protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of.”
Pending the ALEA investigation, Harber's family could explore options for accountability through legal channels.
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Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).