A tragic hit-and-run accident on Interstate 65 claimed the life of Devin M. Chapman, a 33-year-old man from Clanton, Alabama, late Thursday evening, July 31, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 8:10 p.m., near the 228-mile marker, about one mile north of Calera in Shelby County, Alabama. Chapman was riding his 2007 Yamaha XV 1700 motorcycle when he was struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver responsible for the crash fled the scene, leaving Chapman critically injured on the highway.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the collision, but despite their best efforts, Chapman was pronounced dead shortly after the accident. The circumstances surrounding the crash have left his family, friends, and the community in deep mourning, while law enforcement continues the search for the individual responsible for his death.

Details of the Crash

The crash occurred on the northbound lanes of Interstate 65, a major highway connecting the central and northern parts of Alabama. The force of the collision was significant, causing Chapman to be ejected from his motorcycle, a type of crash that often results in severe injuries, especially for motorcyclists. Despite the swift response from Shelby County emergency services, Chapman’s injuries were too severe, and he succumbed to them before he could be transported to the hospital.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating the incident. They have not yet identified the driver or the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run but are actively working on gathering evidence and finding the responsible party. ALEA officials are seeking any information from witnesses or anyone who may have seen or heard something suspicious in the area around the time of the crash.

Ongoing Investigation and Appeal for Information

At this time, the identity of the driver who struck Chapman remains unknown, and investigators are working hard to piece together the details of the crash. The ALEA Highway Patrol Division is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist in identifying the suspect vehicle or its driver to come forward.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has set up a dedicated tip line for tips and leads: (205) 322-4691. Authorities stress that even the smallest detail could help move the investigation forward and bring justice to Chapman’s grieving family.

“We ask anyone who may have seen something, heard something, or has information that could assist our investigation to come forward,” said an ALEA spokesperson. “The information you provide may make all the difference in identifying the individual responsible for this tragic event.”

The ALEA is continuing to monitor traffic cameras, interview potential witnesses, and gather physical evidence from the scene in an effort to identify and locate the driver who fled. Law enforcement officials are committed to bringing closure to the Chapman family by finding the person responsible for this senseless tragedy.

The Impact on the Chapman Family and the Community

The death of Devin M. Chapman has left his family and friends devastated. Known for his kind spirit and strong connections with the local community, Chapman’s passing has shaken the Clanton area. His loved ones, still reeling from the shock of his sudden death, are left with not only the pain of losing him but the added frustration and heartbreak of a hit-and-run accident, where the person responsible for the crash has yet to be identified.

“Devin was a beloved member of our community,” said a family friend. “His life was taken too soon, and now we’re left with so many unanswered questions. We hope the person responsible comes forward so that justice can be served for Devin.”

Hit-and-run crashes like the one that claimed Chapman’s life are particularly devastating for families, as they involve not only the loss of a loved one but also the emotional burden of knowing the responsible party has fled and is evading justice.

In addition to the loss Chapman’s family is enduring, the incident has had a profound impact on the entire community, where Devin was known and loved. The family is left to grapple with the harsh reality of a fatal crash that could have been avoided if the driver had remained at the scene and taken responsibility for their actions.

The Dangers Faced by Motorcyclists

This incident also serves as a reminder of the risks motorcyclists face while navigating the roads. Due to their smaller size and the lack of protective barriers, motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable to injury or death in crashes compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. The Alabama Highway Patrol Division has encouraged all drivers to be particularly mindful of motorcyclists, as they share the road with all types of vehicles, and the consequences of an accident involving a motorcycle can be severe.

“We urge all drivers to be vigilant and share the road safely with motorcyclists,” said the ALEA. “Please avoid distractions, follow the speed limits, and always look twice before making maneuvers on the road.”

Motorcyclists, like Chapman, depend on the responsibility of other road users to stay safe, and incidents like this highlight the tragic consequences that can arise when drivers fail to exercise caution.

The Legal Consequences for the Hit-and-Run Driver

Fleeing the scene of an accident, particularly one that results in injury or death, is a serious crime in Alabama. The ALEA has made it clear that they are committed to holding the responsible driver accountable, and they are urging the public to assist in locating the suspect.

“Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving a fatality, is a serious crime,” stated an ALEA spokesperson. “The individual responsible for this crash needs to be held accountable, and we will continue our efforts to find them and bring them to justice.”

In Alabama, a hit-and-run involving a fatality can lead to severe legal consequences, including felony charges. The ALEA is actively pursuing all leads and evidence in the hopes of identifying and prosecuting the individual responsible for this tragic event.

Moving Forward: Seeking Justice for Devin

As the investigation continues, the Chapman family is left to mourn the loss of a loved one and await justice. They have expressed hope that the person responsible will be found and held accountable for their actions.

“Devin didn’t deserve to die this way,” said a relative. “We just want justice. We want answers. And we want the person who did this to face the consequences of their actions.”

The ALEA continues to ask for the public’s help in solving this case, and authorities remain committed to tracking down the responsible party. The investigation remains active, and ALEA officials have assured the Chapman family and the public that they will continue their efforts until the person responsible is found.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call (205) 322-4691.