Pelham, January 4, 2026
A tragic hit-and-run accident in Pelham has claimed the life of 57-year-old Douglas McQueen, a local cyclist. The driver, 76-year-old Howard Milton Murphy, has been arrested and charged with leaving the scene of the accident. The Shelby County Traffic Homicide Investigation Task Force is leading the investigation. The community is mourning the loss of McQueen, a well-known figure who will be greatly missed.
Pelham
A fatal hit-and-run incident in Pelham has resulted in the death of a bicyclist and the subsequent arrest of a 76-year-old driver. Authorities have identified the victim as 57-year-old Douglas McQueen, a local resident. The driver, Howard Milton Murphy, also of Pelham, faces charges related to leaving the scene of an accident. This tragic event has prompted a significant investigation by the Shelby County Traffic Homicide Investigation Task Force, with Murphy currently held without bond. The incident, which occurred on U.S. Highway 31, has cast a somber mood over the community as details emerge about the beloved bicyclist.
Incident Details
The collision took place on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, around 6 a.m., when Douglas McQueen was riding his bicycle along U.S. Highway 31. This stretch of road, also known as Pelham Parkway, is a major thoroughfare in Pelham. The exact location of the incident was between Amphitheater Road and Highway 119, or Kaba Valley Road. McQueen was struck by a vehicle whose driver then fled the scene, leaving the injured bicyclist behind.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and McQueen was transported to a hospital with severe injuries. Despite diligent efforts to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries the following day, on Thursday, January 1, 2026. The swift identification of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator was a critical step in the ongoing investigation.
Victim Identified
Douglas McQueen, at 57 years old, was a well-known figure in the Pelham community, recognized for his routine bicycle rides. His quiet presence was a familiar sight to many residents. News of his death has deeply saddened the community, with many expressing grief over the sudden and preventable loss of a valued member. The impact of such an incident resonates widely, affecting not only the victim’s family and close friends but also the broader local populace who knew him or were aware of his daily routine.
Driver Charged and Investigation Underway
Following a prompt investigation, law enforcement officials apprehended and charged 76-year-old Howard Milton Murphy in connection with the fatal hit-and-run. Murphy was taken into custody shortly after the incident within the city limits of Pelham. He has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or loss, a serious offense that carries significant legal consequences. Murphy is currently being held without bond as the case proceeds through the legal system.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is being handled by the Shelby County Traffic Homicide Investigation Task Force. This specialized unit is responsible for thoroughly examining fatal traffic incidents, gathering evidence, and reconstructing events to ensure all aspects of the case are properly documented. Their work is crucial in determining the full extent of the factors that contributed to the tragic death of Douglas McQueen.
Community Impact
The loss of Douglas McQueen has generated an outpouring of sorrow within Pelham. As a community member known for his consistent bicycling, his absence will be keenly felt. Incidents of this nature often serve as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists. The ongoing investigation and legal proceedings are being closely watched by residents, who are seeking justice for McQueen and hoping to understand the full sequence of events that led to this unfortunate tragedy. The local community continues to mourn, anticipating further details as the investigation progresses and legal steps are taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the victim in the fatal Pelham hit-and-run?
The victim in the fatal Pelham hit-and-run was 57-year-old Douglas McQueen, a resident of Pelham.
When and where did the hit-and-run incident occur?
The hit-and-run incident occurred on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, around 6 a.m., on U.S. Highway 31 (Pelham Parkway) in Pelham, between Amphitheater Road and Highway 119.
When did Douglas McQueen pass away?
Douglas McQueen died from his injuries on Thursday, January 1, 2026, the day after the collision.
Who was charged in connection with the incident?
76-year-old Howard Milton Murphy of Pelham was charged in connection with the incident.
What charges does the driver face?
The driver, Howard Milton Murphy, faces a charge of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or loss.
What is the current custody status of the charged driver?
Howard Milton Murphy is currently being held without bond.
Which agency is investigating the fatal hit-and-run?
The Shelby County Traffic Homicide Investigation Task Force is investigating the incident.
Key Details of the Pelham Hit-and-Run
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Incident Location | Pelham, Alabama |
| Victim | Douglas McQueen, 57-year-old male |
| Date of Incident | Wednesday, December 31, 2025, around 6 a.m. |
| Location Specifics | U.S. Highway 31 (Pelham Parkway), between Amphitheater Road and Highway 119 |
| Date of Death | Thursday, January 1, 2026 |
| Charged Driver | Howard Milton Murphy, 76-year-old male |
| Charge | Leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or loss |
| Custody Status | Jailed without bond |
| Investigating Authority | Shelby County Traffic Homicide Investigation Task Force |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Springville, Alabama: A Hidden Gem Celebrated for Its Rich History and Unique Festivals
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.
