Wreck claims life of Red Bay educator

CHEROKEE- A Red Bay woman is dead after her car hydroplaned on Alabama 247 and went down an embankment at Fawn Lake.

Authorities with the Tri-Cities Alabama State Troopers Post said Charlotte Hellums, 59, Red Bay, passed away in the one-car accident that occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. Friday.

Hellums was driving a 2006 Toyota Avalon.

Acquaintances close to the victim said her husband was following in a vehicle behind her and witnessed the accident.

Hellums was a long-time educator and served as the guidance counselor at Red Bay High School.

Red Bay principal Kenny Sparks learned of the accident late Friday afternoon and said it is a tragedy that will shake the entire community.

“She was a very helpful, nice lady who was always working towards something dealing with our students whether it was college or other things,” he said. “She had many friends in the community and served as our school counselor for many years. This is a great loss and she is going to be greatly missed.”

Cherokee emergency personnel responded to the scene.

State Troopers are still trying to iron out the details of the accident.