Mom Killed While Retrieving Luggage That Had Fallen Out of Car During Family Trip

Mar. 15, 2025

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Atkinson died at the scene. The city of Daphne is about 13 miles southeast of Mobile, along Mobile Bay.

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During a preliminary investigation, the police department was able to rule out certain factors that could have contributed to the fatality.

“Neither alcohol nor excessive speed is believed to have played a role in this incident,” they said.

An event data recorder from the vehicle that struck Atkinson was traveling in helped authorities to confirm that it did not exceed the posted speed limit.

Speaking with Mobile’sFox10 News, Capt. Reginald Ardis said, “We believe the back hatch of the truck came open and a piece of luggage fell out and came open on the highway and scattered clothing which she stopped and tried to pick up… along with another family member.”

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According to theMiami Herald, Atkinson’s two daughters were students atBayside Academy. The school is currently on break until Jan. 8 following the new year holiday.

Bayside shared tributes to the family on its social media platforms.

“It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the recent passing of Bayside parent, Elizabeth Atkinson,” the academy began in aFacebookpost on Tuesday.

“On behalf of the administration and our school, we offer our deepest condolences to the Atkinson family. Our love and prayers are extended to Elizabeth’s husband, Russell, and their daughters, Emma (Class of 2024) and Ally (Class of 2026.) A prayer service will be held in Elizabeth’s honor tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. We will congregate on the Bluff to collectively grieve this sudden tragedy and offer our support to the family. In the case of rain, the service will be held in the Bayside gym.”

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The same message was shared to the school’s Instagram account.

On Wednesday, Bayside shared a photo from the prayer service to the Instagram Story. In the upload, dozens of supporters came together in remembrance of Atkinson.

“The clouds parted and the sun came out. Let us continue to pray for the Atkinson Family,” the school wrote.

source: people.com