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By J.R. TIDWELL / Editor

A single-vehicle crash on March 3 claimed the life of a Chilton County forest ranger.

According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, James Hall, 43, of Prattville was killed when the 2008 Ford F-250 he was driving left the roadway and struck a tree before catching fire. Hall was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The crash occurred on Titus Road near Edwards Cook Road, approximately three miles east of Titus” in Elmore County said Alabama State Troopers in a release. “Nothing further is available as ALEA State Troopers continue to investigate.”

The Alabama Forestry Commission issued a statement on social media after Hall’s passing that was expanded upon after a gofundme page was set up in Hall’s honor.

“It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the loss of a member of the Alabama Forestry Commission family,” said the AFC on the post. “James Owen Hall, an employee assigned to the Chilton County office, was killed in an automobile accident during heavy storms on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. He was 43 years old.

“During his short tenure with the Commission, he made many friends with fellow employees and volunteer fire department members in the area. Previous to working with the Commission, he served six years in the U.S. Army. He and his family attended Boone’s Chapel Baptist Church. James is survived by his wife Theresa and three children.”

Anyone wishing to donate can visit gofundme.com/f/james-owen-hall-memorial-fund.

Hall’s memorial is set for 11 a.m. March 9 at Boone’s Chapel, County Road 66, Prattville.

“My husband LOVED his job and was so happy with AFC!” Theresa Hall commented on AFC’s post about her husband’s passing. “It was his dream job! I love him so much and I am thankful for the AFC family and friends! Thank you all for your prayers and support as we all navigate through this pain.”

On March 5, the Alabama State Senate and House of Representatives both recognized the passing of Hall with a moment of silence. Sen. Clyde Chambliss and Rep. Van Smith read a memorial for Hall before their respective branches.