Cherokee County, Alabama, September 1, 2025
News Summary
A tragic ATV accident at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Cherokee County, Alabama, has resulted in the deaths of two parents, Marcus Ragland and Ashley Hawkins, and left seven children injured. The incident involved two side-by-side Polaris RZRs, leading to one vehicle overturning after the collision. Authorities are investigating safety issues and the enforcement of regulations at the park, highlighting concerns about ATV safety legislation following the even more severe consequences for the local community.
ATV Collision in Cherokee County, Alabama, Claims Lives of Two Parents and Injures Seven Children
A tragic ATV accident at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Cherokee County, Alabama, on Saturday afternoon resulted in the deaths of two parents and injuries to seven children. The crash occurred around 3:47 p.m. central time and involved two side-by-side Polaris RZRs, one carrying nine passengers and the other with two.
The larger RZR collided with the smaller one, which caused it to overturn and crash into a tree. Emergency responders arrived approximately 18 minutes after the first 911 call was made. The male driver of the larger RZR was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. A female passenger from the same RZR was airlifted to a hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, where she later died from her injuries.
The deceased couple has been identified as Marcus Ragland, a father of ten, and Ashley Hawkins, a mother of two. Seven children, all aged between 1 to 12 years, were injured in the collision. Three of these children were transported to trauma centers in Birmingham, while four others were taken to a hospital in Rome, Georgia. Reports indicate that some victims were not wearing safety harnesses at the time of the incident, although officials noted that there is no law mandating the use of safety belts or harnesses for passengers at the park.
Authorities indicated that the driver of the RZR that rolled over was allegedly exceeding safe speed limits prior to the crash. Both passengers in the second RZR did not sustain any injuries and attempted to assist the victims immediately following the collision.
In the aftermath of the incident, Cherokee County Emergency Management Director Shawn Rogers highlighted the importance of adhering to safety protocols for ATV usage, particularly stressing the need to never exceed passenger limits. However, enforcement of safety regulations at the park is notably difficult due to its expansive area of approximately 4,800 acres.
The incident has been categorized as a mass casualty event, prompting investigations by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, which is currently ongoing. The condition of the injured children remains unspecified as of now. This tragic event has led to renewed discussions about ATV safety legislation, as there have been past accidents at Indian Mountain ATV Park raising concerns about the potential need for regulatory measures.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the children affected by this horrific event. The local community is rallying to assist the victims’ families as they navigate this difficult time.
FAQ Section
What happened in Cherokee County, Alabama?
An ATV collision occurred at Indian Mountain ATV Park, resulting in the deaths of two parents and injuries to seven children.
Who were the victims?
The deceased parents were Marcus Ragland and Ashley Hawkins. They left behind ten and two children, respectively.
What were the circumstances of the crash?
The crash involved two side-by-side Polaris RZR vehicles, with one carrying nine passengers colliding with another carrying two. The larger vehicle overturned after the collision.
What is the current status of the injured?
Seven children were injured in the crash, with three flown to trauma centers in Birmingham and four transported to a hospital in Rome, Georgia.
Is there any investigation underway?
Yes, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
How can the community help?
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to provide support for the children impacted by the tragedy.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Saturday, around 3:47 p.m. CT |
| Location | Indian Mountain ATV Park, Cherokee County, Alabama |
| Vehicles Involved | Two side-by-side Polaris RZRs |
| Fatalities | Marcus Ragland and Ashley Hawkins |
| Injuries | Seven children, ages 1 to 12 |
| Response Time | Approximately 18 minutes |
| Investigation | Ongoing by Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office |
| Community Support | GoFundMe campaign initiated |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Wikipedia: All-terrain vehicle
- WVTM 13
- Google Search: ATV accident
- WSB TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Vehicle
- 11 Alive
- Google News: ATV incident Alabama
- KKTV
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