Flash Flood Claims Life of 22-Year-Old Cohen Turner in Carrollton, Alabama
CARROLLTON, Ala. — What began as a peaceful evening outdoors ended in heartbreak when 22-year-old Cohen Turner lost his life in a tragic flash flood incident while returning home from a night of fishing. The devastating accident occurred late Saturday night, as severe weather and rising waters overtook rural roads across Pickens County.
According to the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, Turner was a passenger in an SUV traveling along a low-lying section of County Road [insert if known] near Carrollton when fast-moving floodwaters swept the vehicle off the road. The SUV was reportedly attempting to cross a stretch that had become submerged following hours of heavy rainfall. Within moments, the current pulled the vehicle into deeper waters, making escape nearly impossible.
Emergency responders were called to the scene shortly after midnight. Rescue crews battled treacherous conditions to reach the partially submerged vehicle, which had come to rest in a flooded ditch surrounded by thick brush. Turner was unresponsive when pulled from the water and was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver, whose identity has not been released, managed to survive the ordeal and was treated at the scene for minor injuries and shock. Authorities say no foul play is suspected, and the death is being ruled a weather-related accident.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our deepest sympathies go out to Cohen Turner’s family and friends,” said Sheriff Todd Hall. “These floodwaters come fast, and even experienced drivers can get caught off guard. We urge everyone to turn around, don’t drown.”
Cohen Turner was a beloved young man in the Carrollton community and surrounding areas. Known for his love of the outdoors, he often spent his free time fishing, hunting, and exploring the Alabama countryside. Friends describe him as kind-hearted, quiet but funny, and always willing to help out when someone needed a hand.
“Cohen was the kind of guy who would drop everything to help someone,” said a close friend. “He loved being outside, whether it was fishing at the lake or just riding backroads. This loss is unreal.”
Turner had recently begun working full-time with a local construction crew and had plans to further his education in welding and mechanics. His family said he was excited about building a future and had just celebrated his 22nd birthday in July.
As news of the tragedy spread, an outpouring of support flooded social media from friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Many have shared stories of his kindness, his work ethic, and his infectious laugh. A candlelight vigil is being organized for later this week at Carrollton City Park, where community members will gather to honor his memory and pray for his family.
In response to the incident, the National Weather Service reiterated safety warnings about flash flooding, especially in rural areas where roadways may lack barriers or signage. According to NWS data, more than half of all flood-related deaths occur in vehicles, often when drivers underestimate the depth and speed of rising water.
“It takes only 12 inches of moving water to carry away a small car,” said NWS meteorologist Eric Walker. “In a matter of seconds, a calm road can become deadly. If you see water, turn around—it’s not worth the risk.”
Funeral services for Cohen Turner are being arranged by [insert funeral home name, if known], with details to be released soon. In the meantime, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched by friends to help support the Turner family with burial costs and other expenses as they navigate this devastating loss.
Cohen Turner’s death is a stark reminder of nature’s unforgiving force, and of how quickly life can be altered by a single moment. As the Carrollton community mourns, they also rally together—honoring a young life full of promise, and remembering a man who touched many hearts in just 22 short years.
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