On May 24, 2018, a group of Auburn geosciences undergraduate students were mapping for a project near the shoulder of U.S. Highway 431 in Gadsden when a pickup truck swerved off the highway, hitting two of the students, Nick Hood and Cole Burton. It is suspected the driver of the truck experienced a sudden flat tire, resulting in the accident.

Both students were airlifted to UAB hospital in Birmingham and are currently in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit. A fellow student, Sophie Milich, set up a website where you can find out more information and offer support and assistance.