TERRIBLE REPORT: The Southern Fast-Pitch Softball Team Two Players Lost in Horrific Disaster
April 25, 2025 – Birmingham, Alabama
The Southern Fast-Pitch Softball Team and its extended community are in mourning after a devastating accident claimed the lives of two of its most beloved players late Wednesday night. The tragic incident occurred as the team was returning from a charity showcase tournament, turning a day meant to inspire hope into one marked by unthinkable loss.
The victims—18-year-old Madison “Maddie” Cole and 19-year-old Taylor Brooks—were both considered standout athletes with bright futures in softball and beyond. They were more than just teammates; they were leaders, role models, and friends whose presence elevated everyone around them.
THE ACCIDENT
According to the Alabama State Patrol, the crash took place around 10:45 p.m. on Highway 280 near Sylacauga. The van transporting several team members home from the tournament was involved in a multi-vehicle collision after being struck by a speeding pickup truck. Authorities said the truck, reportedly driven by a 29-year-old man who may have been under the influence, crossed the median and collided head-on with the team vehicle.
Madison and Taylor were seated in the front passenger seats and bore the brunt of the impact. Emergency crews arrived swiftly, but both were pronounced dead at the scene. Several other players sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical and were transported to local hospitals.
“We are heartbroken and angry,” said Trooper Miles King during a press conference Thursday morning. “This tragedy was preventable, and our hearts go out to every family affected.”
The driver of the pickup truck was taken into custody and is currently under investigation for vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence. Charges are expected to be formally filed later this week.
REMEMBERING MADDIE AND TAYLOR
Madison Cole, a senior at Southern High School, had just committed to play Division I softball at Auburn University. Known for her agility and sharp mind, she played shortstop with grace and intensity. Coaches say she had a natural ability to read the game and lead on the field.
“Maddie was a coach’s dream,” said head coach Rhonda Ellis. “She was hardworking, fearless, and kind. She made the team better just by being there.”
Taylor Brooks, a second-year college student at Jacksonville State University, was the team’s powerhouse catcher and a leader in the locker room. She had aspirations of becoming a sports therapist and had already begun mentoring younger players in her free time.
“Taylor brought a calm strength to the team,” Coach Ellis continued. “She was our anchor, the one who steadied us no matter the storm.”
Friends, family, and fellow athletes describe both girls as deeply compassionate, always cheering others on and showing up for their teammates both on and off the field.
COMMUNITY IN SHOCK
News of the tragedy spread quickly throughout the Southern athletic community, leading to an outpouring of grief and support. A candlelight vigil held at the team’s home field Thursday night drew hundreds, including teammates, coaches, family members, and area residents.
Dozens of hand-written notes, flowers, jerseys, and photos have been placed along the team’s dugout fence. A large banner now hangs above the outfield wall bearing their names and jersey numbers—#7 for Maddie, #12 for Taylor.
“This is bigger than softball,” said teammate Jenna Rhodes, holding back tears. “They were our sisters. We’ll play for them now, every game, every inning.”
Area high schools and colleges have held moments of silence before games, and many teams have taken to wearing black armbands or stickers bearing the initials “MC” and “TB” in tribute.
LEAGUE AND SCHOOL RESPONSES
The Southern Fast-Pitch Softball League issued an emotional statement, calling the loss “one of the darkest days in league history.”
“We mourn the tragic deaths of Madison Cole and Taylor Brooks. Their legacy will forever be a part of this league. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and the entire Southern Fast-Pitch community.”
Southern High School and Jacksonville State University have also responded with support services, hosting grief counseling sessions and planning tributes for their respective campuses.
“We’ve lost two extraordinary young women,” said Principal Sherry Davenport of Southern High. “They lit up every room and inspired every student. Their impact here will not be forgotten.”
FAMILY STATEMENTS
Through a family spokesperson, both sets of parents have issued heart-wrenching statements.
“Madison was everything to us. Her smile, her spirit, her love of life—it’s hard to imagine a world without her. We’re grateful for the love we’ve received, and we ask for privacy as we navigate this unimaginable grief.”
“Taylor was more than our daughter—she was our best friend. She made us proud every single day. The pain is immeasurable, but so is the love we feel from this community.”
MEMORIAL AND LEGACY
Plans are underway for a joint memorial service to be held at a local arena large enough to accommodate the expected crowd. The team has announced it will retire both players’ jerseys and create a scholarship fund in their names to support young women pursuing college athletics.
Coach Ellis says the 2025 season, if and when it continues, will be dedicated to Maddie and Taylor.
“They would want us to keep going,” she said. “They played with heart, and now we’ll carry their hearts with us.”
A CALL FOR CHANGE
In the wake of this tragedy, community leaders and advocacy groups are renewing calls for tougher DUI penalties and improved safety measures on state highways.
“Two young lives were stolen because someone made the reckless choice to drive under the influence,” said State Senator Darlene Whitman. “We owe it to Madison and Taylor to fight for change. We must do better.”
Local parents and coaches are planning a safety awareness march in Birmingham next weekend in memory of the girls, with the goal of raising funds for highway safety awareness and drunk driving prevention programs.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Maddie Cole and Taylor Brooks were not just athletes. They were daughters, sisters, friends, and beacons of hope for many. Their legacy of courage, kindness, and camaraderie will live on in every player who steps onto the field, every parent who cheers from the stands, and every fan who remembers what they stood for.
Though the cleats may now be empty, the footprints they left will never fade.
Memorial donations in their name can be made to the “Cole & Brooks Softball Legacy Fund” through the team’s official website.
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