Accident claims life of 18-year-old

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) - Police say 18-year-old Diamond Harris was killed in a Monday morning traffic accident, and a 19-year-old man was taken to USA Medical Center in critical condition.

The accident happened near Palmer Pillans Middle School on Dauphin Island Parkway, close to the Dauphin Island Parkway and Old Military Road intersection around 8 a.m.

Harris was a passenger in the green Chevrolet truck, which was driven by the 19-year-old man.

Officials said the wreck happened when the truck collided with a Safety Kleen vacuum service truck. The accident produced a crumpled mess of steel, and a group of bystanders who couldn’t believe their eyes.

"She was suspended there, just hanging there, and all I could do was pray to God to have mercy," said Sornora Johnson.

Vanessa Kemp rushed to the young woman's side.

"I prayed for her, to let her know I was with her until paramedics could come. I have two daughters and no one wants to go alone. So, I just prayed for her," said Kemp.

Kemp believed the woman was killed instantly. When asked about the driver of the truck, a teary eyed Kemp said, "He was moaning under the air bag."

The driver of the Safety Kleen truck was not injured.

Investigators said Harris was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the wreck.

The accident is still under investigation.