Leighton Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Howard Christian “Hank” Staggs, 44, in Fatal Crash on Highway 20

Leighton Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of Howard Christian “Hank” Staggs, 44, in Fatal Crash on Highway 20

Leighton, AL – October 17, 2025

It is with shared sorrow and heavy hearts that the tight-knit community of Leighton is mourning the heartbreaking and untimely passing of Howard Christian “Hank” Staggs, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash on Thursday afternoon. The fatal accident occurred along Highway 20, near the intersection of County Line Road and Pruitt Drive — a familiar stretch of road now marked by grief and remembrance.

Staggs, who was just 44 years old, was the sole occupant of the vehicle when the crash occurred around 2:10 p.m. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), preliminary reports indicate that Staggs’ vehicle veered off the roadway for reasons still under investigation and struck a tree. Despite the efforts of emergency responders who arrived swiftly at the scene, Staggs succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on site.

As news of the crash spread, an overwhelming sense of shock and loss gripped the Leighton area — a small town where everyone seems to know one another and where Hank Staggs was a familiar and deeply respected figure.

A Life Rooted in Family, Faith, and Service

Known affectionately by most as “Hank,” Howard Christian Staggs was more than a name — he was a presence. Whether it was lending a hand at a local church, cheering at youth sports games, or fixing a neighbor’s tractor, Hank was always there. A lifelong resident of Colbert County, he embodied the values of hard work, loyalty, and community spirit that define the area.

Hank worked as a mechanic and equipment operator for over 20 years and was known for his strong work ethic and even stronger handshake. “You didn’t have to guess where you stood with Hank,” said longtime friend and coworker Jerry McDaniel. “He was the real deal — honest, loyal, and good-hearted to the core.”

He was also a proud father and devoted family man. Hank is survived by his two children, ages 16 and 12, who were the pride of his life, and his wife of 18 years, Melissa. “He lived for his family,” said Melissa in a statement shared with local media. “Everything he did — every job he took, every hour he worked — was for us. He loved big, and we will carry that love with us always.”

Hank was also an active member of a local church in Leighton, where he volunteered regularly and served as a deacon. Church members recalled his strong faith and his unwavering commitment to helping others, whether it was organizing food drives or repairing storm-damaged homes.

Community Grieves a Profound Loss

As word of the tragic accident spread through Leighton and surrounding communities, friends, family members, and neighbors gathered Thursday evening in quiet vigils and moments of reflection. A growing memorial at the crash site — made up of flowers, crosses, and handwritten notes — reflects the outpouring of grief and love for a man who meant so much to so many.

“He was one of the good ones,” said Angela Potts, a neighbor who had known Hank since childhood. “He would drop everything to help you, even if he had a hundred things going on. That’s just the kind of man he was.”

Leighton Mayor Derick Silas released a public statement Thursday night: “We are heartbroken by the loss of Hank Staggs — a pillar of our community, a loving father, and a friend to many. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. The town of Leighton will not forget the legacy of kindness and strength he leaves behind.”

An Ongoing Investigation

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. As of Friday, there were no indications of foul play, but the cause of the vehicle’s departure from the roadway has not been officially determined.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is asking any witnesses who may have seen the crash or have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation.

Meanwhile, officials are also urging drivers to be cautious along rural routes like Highway 20, particularly during the afternoon hours when sun glare and road conditions can pose unexpected hazards.

Honoring a Life Well Lived

In the coming days, the Staggs family will be finalizing arrangements to honor Hank’s life. Funeral services are expected to be held early next week at the Leighton Baptist Church, with a community visitation to follow. The family has asked for privacy as they process this unimaginable loss but shared that anyone who wishes to pay tribute to Hank’s memory is welcome to attend and celebrate the man he was.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Hank Staggs Memorial Fund at a local bank to support his children’s future education and needs. Donations can also be made to local charities close to Hank’s heart, including the Leighton Food Pantry and the Colbert County Youth League.

As one friend wrote on social media, “Hank didn’t just live in Leighton — he helped build it. With his hands, with his heart, and with every moment he gave to others.”