Alabama teen killed in weekend wreck identified, several businesses raising funds for families of those involved

MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — The 17-year-old killed in a wreck over the weekend in Hartselle has been identified and several businesses have announced they will be raising money for his family and the families of others involved.

According to the teen’s grandmother, Tristan Hollis was killed Saturday in a crash at the intersection of Highway 31 and Highway 36.

Hartselle Police said the Priceville Police Department was engaged in a vehicle chase that entered Hartselle on Highway 36. The chase ended in a crash at the intersection where the suspect’s vehicle hit another vehicle that was carrying Hollis and at least three others, resulting in multiple injuries.

Six people were taken to the hospital, according to Hartselle Police. Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn said that a 17-year-old, identified later by his grandmother as Hollis, died as a result of the incident.

According to GoFundMe pages created by family and family friends of others involved, Braxton Wales, 14-year-old Gavin Prater and 16-year-old Noah Prater were in the vehicle with Hollis and were injured in the crash.

Kevin Pylant, Wales’s uncle, sent the following statement about the incident to News 19:

“We are deeply shattered by this tragic event. One child has lost his life, and three teenagers’ lives have been changed forever. My heart goes out to all of the families affected by this unimaginable tragedy, and I want to express my deepest respect for every family involved. I am also truly thankful for the way the Hartselle community has come together in support during this difficult time. There are mixed opinions surrounding this case, but the one undeniable truth is that in times of heartbreak, our community has shown its strength and compassion by standing together. Out of respect, I will not comment on the conditions of those involved. What I can share is that Braxton Wales is recovering. This will be a long road, not only for Braxton, but for all of the families impacted. Surviving something this terrible can take a heavy toll on one’s mental health, and the journey forward will require healing not just physically, but emotionally as well. Continued prayers and support are needed for everyone whose lives have been forever changed.”
Kevin Pylant

Hartselle Police said the suspect in the vehicle involved in the chase who was originally reported to be arrested, identified as Archie Hale, is in the hospital and will be for an extended period of time.

Priceville Police said the officer attempted to stop the suspect for moving violations/suspicion of driving under the influence. PPD confirmed that the officer involved is on leave, and an internal investigation is being conducted as well that Chief Jerry Holmes said will take some time to complete.

HPD also confirmed they are investigating and will be seeking surrounding area video, Priceville Police Department patrol car video, medical records for all involved parties, statements from all involved parties and witness statements as part of the investigation.

On Monday, Hartselle High School hosted a prayer vigil inside the school auditorium. Inside the vigil, the message “support, strength, prayer, community, #HartselleStrong” was displayed on a screen. More than a dozen ministry leaders were on hand, and students and attendees broke into small groups to pray.

Several businesses in Hartselle are donating proceeds to the families affected by the wreck:

• Hartselle Nutrition said from September 9-10, a portion of each purchase will be donated for the families.
• Warehouse Coffee announced that from September 8-13, a portion of each purchase will be donated to the families.
• Pizza Ed announced that on Monday, September 15, a portion of proceeds will be donated to the families. The business said you can donate in person at the restaurant.
• On Wednesday, September 10, Scooters in Hartselle said 25% of proceeds will be donated to the families involved in the wreck.
• Two Silly Pickles also announced that it would be selling shirts and a portion of the proceeds would be donated. Preorder ends Monday, September 15.
• Holy Smokes BBQ said it will be accepting donations for the families affected at the restaurant all week.

Hollis’ obituary says that a graveside funeral service and interment for Hollis will be held on Thursday, September 11 at 11 a.m. at Hartselle City Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Peck Funeral Home.