A Lowndes County, Alabama Sheriff's deputy was killed in an on-duty crash Monday morning.
Deputy Levy Pettway, who worked as a school resource officer, was driving his 2001 Ford Crown Victoria when it left the road on Alabama 21 in Hayneville just before noon before it struck several trees, according to WSFA-TV.
The 61-year-old deputy had to be extricated from his vehicle and was pronounced dead shortly after the crash.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
"Alabama State Troopers responded to a single vehicle crash on Alabama 21 in Lowndes County in the Hayneville city limits," Sgt. Steve Jarrett with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. "It was a one vehicle crash involving a Lowndes County sheriff’s deputy and unfortunately, that deputy did succumb to his injuries in the crash."
A black wreath was placed on the front door of the department on Monday as a tribute to Pettway.
Calhoun School Principal Nicholas Townsend told the news station that the entire student body and staff were shaken by the news of Pettway's death.
"He was one of a kind. He can’t be replaced. He was kindhearted, genuine, and honestly loved the students," he said. "You can tell by their reactions that they care for him as well. Normally, a security guard or SRO is going to have a separate relationship from his students but he really took time with each student to talk with them each day."
Funeral arrangements are pending.
