Questions remain over fatal 2023 crash involving former Gurley police officer

GURLEY, Ala. (WAFF) – Questions persist more than a year after a police chase that led to a deadly collision on Jordan Lane in Huntsville. The accident claimed the life of innocent motorist Matthew Norwood in July 2023.

Former Gurley police officer Christopher Whalen has since been charged with manslaughter for his role in the pursuit.

According to police, the pursuit began in Hollywood, Alabama, when the driver of a Nissan Maxima violated traffic laws near police headquarters, which attracted the attention of an officer.

Hollywood police and Jackson County deputies pursued the suspect to the Madison County line. Officers and sheriff’s deputies then abandoned the pursuit and Whalen took control.

Authorities say Whalen followed the suspect to Jordan Lane in Huntsville, where he crashed his car into Matthew Norwood’s car, killing him.

WAFF 48 is working to find out what happened to the suspect who has since been pursued by Whalen.

Alabama law enforcement officials referred our questions to Gurley police on Friday.

When we reached out, the city attorney advised us to contact the Huntsville Police.

An HPD spokesperson said they will review the investigation, however they do not believe Huntsville officers made an arrest that night and again referred all questions to Gurley officers.

It is still unclear whether the suspect who sparked the chase was ever taken into custody.

Whalen, who retired from the Gurley Police Department earlier this year, is currently out on bond.

His trial is scheduled for February 2025.

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