UPDATE: Fundraiser launched for family of 26-year-old killed in Russell County train incident
A fundraiser has been launched to help the family of a 26-year-old Fort Mitchell man who died following a train incident in Russell County.
John Newman died late Thursday night, October 8, according to Russell County Coroner Arthur Sumbry Jr. Newman was pronounced dead at the scene at 12:39 a.m. on October 9, 2026, from blunt force injuries sustained in the incident near Owens Road.
Newman’s body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences for an autopsy.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, and no additional details have been released.
Following his death, Newman’s family is seeking financial assistance to help cover funeral arrangements and a celebration of life in his honor.
His brother, Elijah Newman, organized a GoFundMe fundraiser, describing John as someone who had the biggest heart and consistently put others before himself.
“Everybody who knew and loved John is devastated by this loss,” Elijah wrote in the fundraiser. He said the family is struggling to begin making arrangements because of financial difficulties and needs assistance as soon as possible to give John the farewell he deserves.
The fundraiser has a goal of $3,000. As of Tuesday, October 13, $2,315 had been raised.
The family is asking for donations of any amount. Those who are unable to contribute financially are also encouraged to share the fundraiser to help spread the word.
To donate or learn more, click here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/john-newmans-funeral-and-celebration-of-life
Originally reported: https://cnaw2news.com/2026/10/09/26-year-old-man-dies-in-train-incident-in-russell-county/
Related stories
Crime & Safety26-year-old man dies in train incident in Russell County
WeatherMagnitude 2.2 earthquake reported in Meriwether County, Georgia
WeatherBREAKING: Two alabamians dead following Hurricane Isaias as storm recovery efforts continue
WeatherBREAKING: FLASH FLOOD WARNING ISSUED FOR LEE, RUSSELL, BARBOUR, BULLOCK AND MACON COUNTIES
WeatherFlash flood warning issued for Barbour County in southeast Alabama