Bessemer, AL — The community of McCalla and Bessemer is grieving the devastating and untimely loss of Amanda Lee Brulez, a 41-year-old woman whose life was tragically cut short in a fatal roadside accident late Friday night on Interstate 59/20 near Mile Marker 106.
A Routine Act Turns Tragic
According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, Amanda was involved in a two-vehicle crash around 10:40 PM. After the initial collision, Amanda exited her vehicle—possibly to assess the damage or check on others involved. Tragically, she was struck by another passing vehicle.
Despite the swift response from emergency personnel, Amanda was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:21 PM. The driver who struck her remained on the scene and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.
A Stark Reminder of Roadside Dangers
Amanda’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers that exist when pedestrians are on high-speed roadways, particularly at night. Poor lighting and fast-moving traffic on interstates often leave little room for error or reaction time. Safety experts emphasize that, whenever possible, individuals involved in highway accidents should remain inside their vehicles with seatbelts fastened and emergency hazard lights on, unless it is absolutely unsafe to do so.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of roadside safety awareness—a lesson now underscored by Amanda’s untimely passing.
A Community in Mourning
Amanda Lee Brulez was more than a name in a tragic news report—she was a beloved daughter, friend, and neighbor, known for her warmth, generosity, and kind-hearted nature. Her death has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her.
Tributes have poured in across social media and community groups, where friends and family remember Amanda as someone with an infectious laugh, a giving spirit, and a heart that always put others first. She had a rare ability to connect with people and make them feel seen, heard, and valued.
Her family describes her as a pillar of strength and compassion, someone who was always willing to lend a hand, offer comfort, or simply be a source of light in difficult times.
Remembering Amanda’s Legacy
Neighbors and loved ones have come together to share stories and offer support in the wake of this tragedy. Many recall Amanda’s beaming smile, her welcoming nature, and the way she could light up any room she entered. She was someone people leaned on—a source of comfort, advice, and unconditional love.
Her sudden loss has left her family devastated. Amanda was their rock, and her absence is felt deeply. Yet, in the midst of their grief, her family is determined to honor her memory, keeping alive the values of kindness, compassion, and community that she embodied so fully.
A Wake-Up Call for Roadside Safety
This heartbreaking incident has prompted a renewed call for caution and heightened awareness during roadside emergencies. The Alabama Department of Transportation and local law enforcement are reminding the public that, even with flashing hazard lights or reflective clothing, pedestrians remain extremely vulnerable—especially on high-speed roadways after dark.
Amanda’s story is now a sobering reminder of the importance of safety precautions and the unpredictable nature of roadside accidents.
Honoring a Life Well Lived
As McCalla and Bessemer continue to grieve, Amanda’s influence remains deeply rooted in the community. A memorial service is being planned, giving loved ones an opportunity to come together, share memories, and celebrate the remarkable woman Amanda was.
Her family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and love they’ve received. “Amanda was truly loved by everyone who knew her,” one relative shared. “She made the world better with her kindness and joy.”
Though Amanda Lee Brulez is no longer with us, her legacy of love, compassion, and community spirit will continue to inspire those she left behind.
May Amanda rest in peace. May her life—and the tragic way in which it ended—serve as a powerful reminder of both the fragility of life and the importance of roadside safety.