By Associated Press - Sunday, January 1, 2017

FLORENCE, Ala. (AP) - Authorities say three people died on New Year’s Eve when the utility terrain vehicle they were driving went off the road and hit a tree.

Senior Trooper Johnathan Appling tells Al.com (https://bit.ly/2hE0sAX ) that four people were in the Polaris Ranger UTV around 8:40 p.m. Saturday when it went off the road.

The driver and two passengers were thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene. A fourth passenger was injured and taken to a local hospital.



None of the passengers were using seat belts or helmets.

Appling said the preliminary investigation shows alcohol played a role in the crash. Alabama State Troopers are investigating the accident.

Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.