Weather a factor in fatal wreck

By Staff
Jason Houston FCT Managing Editor
Excess speed and terrible weather conditions contributed to a one-car accident late Wednesday that killed a Phil Campbell man, officials said.
Officials said Ronald Dale Gibson, 39, of Phil Campbell died at Russellville Hospital from injuries suffered in a wreck that occurred around 5 p.m. on Alabama 243, six miles south of Russellville.
Franklin County Coroner David Hester said Gibson was transported from the scene by ambulance to Russellville Hospital. He was pronounced dead later by physicians from massive blunt-force trauma.
Officials at the scene had originally requested the Air Evac helicopter, but the helicopter was not able to fly due to the heavy rain and winds.
Law enforcement officials said Gibson was traveling south on 243 when he hit a ditch. His vehicle overturned, and Gibson was partially ejected from the car. Officials said it appeared Gibson was not wearing a seat belt.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety is investigating the accident.