Braden Canterberry, 17, and Braxton Canterberry, 20, Killed in Marion County Crash on County Road 36 (Jasper Hill); Chief Skylar Handley and Sheriff Kevin Williams Say Teens Were Ejected From Toyota 4Runner, Third Airlifted to UAB Hospital

A devastating early morning crash in Marion County, Alabama, has left two young people dead and another critically injured, sending shockwaves through the small communities of Marion County and Brilliant.

Authorities identified the victims as Braden Canterberry, 17, a senior at Brilliant High School, and Braxton Canterberry, 20. Both were pronounced dead at the scene following the single-vehicle crash.

An 18-year-old passenger, whose name has not been released, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to UAB Hospital for emergency treatment.

According to Kevin Williams, deputies were dispatched around 2 a.m. Wednesday to a report of teenagers gathering and drinking at a location locally known as the “gravel pit” along County Road 36, also referred to as Jasper Hill.

While responding to that call, deputies observed a silver Toyota 4Runner traveling at a high rate of speed through the area.

Skylar Handley said deputies activated their emergency lights but did not initiate a pursuit.

“The deputies lost sight of the vehicle and continued patrolling the area,” Handley said. “A short time later, they came across the single-vehicle crash.”

Authorities confirmed that the Toyota 4Runner was carrying three occupants, all of whom were ejected during the crash.

The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, and officials have not yet said whether alcohol or other factors contributed to the incident.

The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, particularly Brilliant High School, where Braden Canterberry was a student.

Brilliant Schools released a statement expressing grief over the loss:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of students from our school. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, classmates, and teachers who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time.”

School officials said classes will remain open to provide support for students and staff, with counselors and additional resources made available on campus.

Chief Handley, who said he personally knew the teens, described the loss as especially painful for the tight-knit community.

“I knew all three kids personally… they were good kids and came from great backgrounds,” he said. “Any passing is tragic, but especially when it involves young people. It’s going to take time for us to get through this.”

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as the community mourns the loss of two young lives and prays for the recovery of the injured teen.