BALDWIN COUNTY, AL (WALB) - Members of an Albany State University sorority are remembering and honoring the life of one of their own killed in a car crash this week in Alabama.

ASU’s Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter released a statement about 21-year-old Amaya Williams that reads in part:

“Amaya will forever be ‘our Scientist’, a history-maker as the last Black woman chemistry major on the Albany State University’s campus. Her brilliance, perseverance, and commitment to excellence broke barriers and inspired those who walked beside her and those who will follow in her footsteps.”

The 21-year-old from Albany was one of three people killed in a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 65 in Baldwin County, Ala., on Dec. 23.

According to our sister station WALA-TV, Simon Hadley, 84, was driving a pickup when it struck a car carrying Amaya Williams and Keithrick Williams, 49, of Auburn, Ala.

An eyewitness told WALA-TV the pickup was traveling the wrong way on Interstate 65.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reported that a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Hadley collided head-on with a Kia Niro driven by Williams. Both Amaya Williams and Keithrick Williams were pronounced dead at the scene.

Hadley was taken to North Baldwin Infirmary in Bay Minette, where he later died.

Albany State University has released a statement that says, “During this time of profound loss, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ms. William’s family, friends, and loved ones. As we mourn her loss, it is essential that we take care of our mental and emotional well-being and support one another as a community.”

Below is a list of wellness resources that ASU has provided for students, faculty, and staff.

• ASU Counseling Center: The Counseling Center is staffed with licensed, professional counselors who provide free and confidential services. If you or someone you know is a student and in need of assistance, please call ASU Counseling and Accessibility Services at (229) 500-2013.
• Uwill Mental Health and Wellness: Uwill offers a dedicated 24/7/365 Support Line staffed by licensed clinicians. Students may call 1 (833) 646-1526 or visit Counseling and Student Accessibility Services. Uwill also offers FREE, immediate access to teletherapy and on- demand wellness programming through its easy-to-use online platform and mobile app.
• Employee Assistance Program: Acentra Health is the University’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider and offers a variety of confidential services to enhance well-being. The EAP provides limited, FREE counseling services for you, household family members, and dependents. Contact Acentra Health at 1 (844) 243-4440 or go to usg.mylifeexpert.com and use the company code: USGCares

ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate the crash.

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