News Summary
In a heartbreaking incident, two University of Alabama students, Jackson Cunningham and Nicole Moore, lost their lives in a vehicle collision while crossing a road in Escambia County. The accident occurred early Saturday morning when they were struck by an off-duty sheriff’s deputy returning home. Both students were well-regarded by their peers, and their deaths have left a profound impact on the community, drawing attention to pedestrian safety. A GoFundMe has been set up for funeral expenses, reflecting the outpouring of support from family and friends during this tragic time.
Escambia County, Florida – Two University of Alabama students, Jackson Cunningham and Nicole Moore, both aged 20, were tragically killed in a vehicle collision while crossing a road early Saturday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 2:57 a.m. on State Road 292 at River Road when an off-duty sheriff’s deputy struck the pedestrians.
The driver, a 47-year-old man from Pensacola, was returning home from an off-duty job when he hit Cunningham and Moore. Both students were pronounced dead at the scene, underscoring the tragic impact of the accident on their friends and families.
Cunningham, a resident of Hoover, Alabama, had recently completed his sophomore year at the University of Alabama and was taking a year off from studies. He was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, which released a statement honoring his character, faith, and the joy he brought to others. His father described him as “amazing” and someone who united people through his kind nature.
Prior to the accident, Cunningham and Moore had spent time together at the beach with friends before attempting to access the beach for crabbing. Notably, the vehicle that struck them narrowly missed two of Cunningham’s friends who were with them at the time.
Moore, who was from Calera, Alabama, was studying cosmetology at Paul Mitchell The School Birmingham. She was remembered fondly by her peers and instructors for her laughter and warmth, indicating the positive impact she had on those around her.
The tragic loss of both young lives has drawn attention not only from friends and family but also from the broader community. A GoFundMe account has been set up to assist with Cunningham’s funeral expenses, illustrating the support from family and friends during this distressing time.
Jackson Cunningham graduated from Hoover High School, where he was an active member of the basketball team. Following high school, he began working on the installation of fiber optic cable during his time off from college, highlighting a period of personal growth that included a spiritual journey. He had recently expressed uncertainty about his educational future, concerned about not wanting to impose a financial burden on his parents.
His father spoke about the profound grief he feels and the challenges of coping with the sudden loss of his son. Les Cunningham mentions his son’s maturity and the spiritual development he was experiencing, with plans for baptism at the Church of the Highlands in August. Family members indicated that Jackson was particularly close to his mother, Kelly Borganelli, and had developed a role as a father figure to his 13-year-old sister, further showcasing his importance within the family unit.
The community is grappling with the loss of two promising young individuals whose lives were cut short too soon. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation, with many calling for a review of safety measures for pedestrians in the area.
Both Jackson Cunningham and Nicole Moore will be remembered not only for their aspirations and potential but also for the indelible marks they left on the hearts of those who knew them.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Conference Sparks Vital Conversations on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Alabama Student Killed by Off-Duty Deputy
- Wikipedia: Traffic Collision
- WEAR: 17-Year-Old Killed in Atmore Shooting
- Google Search: Accidents in Escambia County
- PNJ: Teen Remembered After Crash
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vehicle Accident
- FOX10: Charges Dropped Against Pensacola Man
- Google News: Escambia County Shooting
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
