Pedestrian Fatally Struck by Off-Duty Officer on Highway 21

Anniston, Ala. – A Georgia man was struck and killed by an off-duty Oxford police officer on the night of Wednesday, July 2, in a collision that occurred on Alabama Highway 21 near Iron Mountain Road.

Authorities say the incident took place around 9:15 p.m. as the officer, driving northbound in a marked patrol vehicle, was returning home from church. The pedestrian, identified as 47-year-old Robert Lee Womack, had reportedly been walking in the roadway when the collision occurred.

Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown confirmed that Womack, who was visiting a friend in Anniston, was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:37 p.m. Emergency dispatch had received calls about a man in the road shortly before the crash, but officers had not arrived in time to intervene.

The officer involved was not injured, and the Anniston Police Department is conducting the investigation into the fatal collision.

Officials have emphasized the continued need for vigilance and safety for both drivers and pedestrians, especially during nighttime travel.

Chief Bill Partridge released the following statement:

On July 2, 2025, at approximately 9:15 PM, an officer from the Oxford Police Department (OXPD) was involved in a tragic incident on Alabama Highway 21. The officer, who had just left church traveling home, was heading northbound when they struck a pedestrian in the road near Iron Mountain Road in Anniston.

Unfortunately, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. Fortunately, the OXPD officer was not injured during the collision. The Anniston Police Department is actively investigating the incident.

This event is a solemn reminder of the importance of roadway safety for both drivers and pedestrians especially at night. Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased during this difficult time. We encourage everyone to stay alert and cautious while traveling on our roads.