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On September 11, 2025, Archie Hale was released from medical care, arrested, and booked into the Morgan County Jail. He is being held with no bond on the murder of a juvenile citizen of Hartselle.
HARTSELLE-On September 10, 2025, Traffic Homicide Investigators obtained a warrant for Archie Hale, age 40, of Hillsboro, for Murder in connection with the fatal traffic crash that occurred on September 6, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m.
Hale was identified as the driver of a vehicle that struck another vehicle traveling north on Highway 31. Video evidence confirms Hale entered the intersection from Highway 36 west bound at a very high rate of speed while the traffic light was red for his direction of travel. His actions demonstrated extreme indifference to human life, as he recklessly engaged in conduct that created a grave risk of death and ultimately caused the death of a juvenile victim.

Archie Hale
Hale sustained serious injuries in the crash and remains under medical care. Hartselle officers are standing by and will assume custody once Hale is released. Hale will be held with no bond. In addition to the murder charge, Hale faces multiple charges through the Priceville Police Department, including Attempting to Elude, Possession with Intent, DUI, Reckless Endangerment, and multiple moving violations, with total bonds amounting to $296,000.00.
This investigation remains ongoing and extensive, with multiple victims involved. Investigators must obtain and review medical records to determine the severity of all injuries, and additional charges are expected as findings are confirmed.
Chief McDearmond met with a representative of the juvenile victim’s family prior to the warrant being obtained. While nothing can fill the void left in this family, the Hartselle Police Department is committed to ensuring Hale faces these charges and that justice is pursued on behalf of this young man and his family.
On September 11, 2025, Archie Hale was released from medical care, arrested, and booked into the Morgan County Jail. He is being held with no bond on the murder of a juvenile citizen of Hartselle.In addition, Hale faces multiple charges through the Priceville Police Department, including Attempting to Elude, Possession with Intent, DUI, Reckless Endangerment, and several moving violations, with total bonds set at $296,000.00.
This arrest comes shortly after this young man’s funeral. Such a tragic loss for one of our Hartselle families. We are heartbroken for the family as a city. On behalf of the officers of the Hartselle Police Department, I extend our condolences to the family for this tragedy.
Chief McDearmond
Media Release/Hartselle Police Department
