State-champion Alexandria wrestler confirmed as 16-year-old victim in Friday night single-vehicle crash near Ohatchee.
By Joe Medley
Alexandria two-time state-champion wrestler Jeremy “Ryan” Lambert was the 16-year-old victim in a fatal single-vehicle crash near Ohatchee on Friday night, Alexandria principal Derek Cobb confirms.
Cobb confirmed the identity of the victim after conferring with the Lambert family.
“The Alexandria High School family lost a tremendous student, teammate, and friend with the passing of Ryan Lambert,” Cobb said in a statement. “He was such a respectful young man who was greatly loved by his classmates, teammates, teachers, and friends.
“He will be forever remembered as a state wrestling champion at Alexandria High School, but above all the championships and medals, he was one of the most pleasant individuals to be around. His passion, spirit, and determination in the classroom and on the wrestling mat has left an indelible mark at AHS. Our hearts are hurting during this difficult time. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support from the Alexandria community, as well as our neighboring communities throughout the state. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lambert family as they navigate through this time of grief.”
According to an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency release, the accident occurred at approximately 10 p.m. Friday and claimed the life of an Alexandria juvenile.
“The 16-year-old was critically injured when the 2007 Jeep Cherokee that the teen was driving left the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned,” the release said. “The teen was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected. The teen was transported to a local area hospital for treatment, where the juvenile later succumbed to injuries and was pronounced deceased.
“The crash occurred on Vineyard Road near Lowimoore Road, approximately six miles east of Ohatchee, in Calhoun County. Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.”
Lambert had just completed his sophomore year at Alexandria High School. He won the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 1A-4A 120-pound championship final in February in Huntsville’s Von Braun Center, defeating St. James’ Noah Rains in a 15-2 major decision.
Lambert helped Alexandria to a state-runner-up finish.
His passing prompted several social-media posts expressing condolence to Lambert’s family and paying tribute to him.
“Absolutely heartbreaking and still in disbelief,” said Frank Hartzog, who announced his retirement as Alexandria’s wrestling coach after the season. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
