Deadly accident on Highway 59 investigated

STOCKTON, Ala. (WALA) - Shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday, February 21, Alabama State Troopers responded to an accident on Highway 59.

It happened eight miles north of Stockton, in northern Baldwin County.

Troopers say Johnathan Maurice Benjamin, 27, was driving north when his car left the roadway and hit a tree. Benjamin, who authorities say was not wearing a seatbelt, died at the scene.

Authorities say speed appears to have been a factor in the crash.