An Alabama police lieutenant has died after he was struck by a directing traffic at a church. Mark Meadows, 60, who served on the Irondale police force, was arranging cones at an intersection outside the Church of the Highlands’ main campus. He was struck by a Chevrolet Colorado. The driver immediately stopped and police are investigating the accident.
The incident occurred before 7 a.m. on Monday at the church’s “21 Days of Prayer” event. This popular event runs from Jan. 5 to Jan. 25 and was preparing to end for the day. Lt, Meadows was transported to Grandview Medical Center where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. Irondale Mayor James Stewart Jr. thanked the “treasured member” of the force for his decades of service.
The mayor explained that “He was a man of few words but always led by example and embodied the heart of a true public servant.” In a statement made to the press, he said that “Lt. Meadows will be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters at the Irondale Police Department, as well as by all of our City employees and citizens. We are comforted in knowing that he is with his heavenly father, and we will continue to cover his family in prayer as they grieve this great loss.”
Officials announced that grief support is available for officers and others in need. Chris Hodges, lead pastor at Church of the Highlands, worked with Meadows for almost 18 years ago. He said, “our hearts are heavy beyond measure.” Meadows worked with the church since its main campus at Grants Mill opened and Hodgies considered him ‘family.’
He added, “All our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, son, family members, fellow officers, and the many who loved him.” He went on to say “Even in the most difficult and trying times, we know our God will provide comfort, strength, and reassurance based on the promise of heaven. We as a church will do all we can to care for his family.”
The Governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey took to X to express condolences to Meadows’ loved ones and church family. The official said “My heart is heavy as I have learned of the tragic loss of Irondale Police Lieutenant Mark Meadows, a veteran and true public servant. I join all Alabamians in lifting up his family, the Irondale Police Department, and the Church of the Highlands community in prayer.”
Republican Senator from Alabama, Tommy Tuberville, was “saddened to hear of the loss.” He thanked him for his selfless service as a police officer and Army veteran. Lt. Meadows began his career in law enforcement in 1992 with the nearby Mountain Brook Police Department before transferring to Irondale. He was a valued member of the force.
The FBI certified him as a pistol and rifle instructor. The NRA also awarded him a specialized teaching certification. According to local news, he is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. An investigation into the deadly incident has been launched by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. His family has not made a public statement.