Hoover man dies in accident after pursuit by Shelby County deputy

A Hoover man died in a two-car accident after trying to elude a Shelby County deputy, according to a sheriff’s office news update.

Sean Dawson Brooks, 45, was involved in a two-car accident off of Dunnavant Valley Road on Thursday. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of serious injuries and died as a result of the injuries. Brooks’ passenger, Chelsea resident Tammie Denise Smith, and the driver of the other car, William Mark Numnum, were also seriously injured in the accident and transferred to UAB for treatment. Smith and Numnum are still being treated for their injuries.

A Shelby County deputy saw a silver Honda Civic on Dunnavant Valley Road while patrolling a neighborhood around 7:30 p.m. on July 9. The car quickly left the neighborhood and continued to drive “recklessly” on Dunnavant Valley Road.

When the deputy turned on his lights and siren, the driver – later identified as Brooks – sped up. Numnum pulled out in front of Brooks’ vehicle, causing the accident.

Hoover Police Department assisted with traffic control, and State Troopers are investigating the accident. Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego said it will take several days to complete a final review of the accident.

“We are in the process of thoroughly reviewing the circumstances leading up to this accident,” Samaniego said. “From the preliminary report, it appears the deputy was acting within the scope of his duties and within the policies of the Sheriff’s Office. The family and friends of Sean Brooks are heavy on our hearts today and our prayers are also with the Smith and Numnum families. It will take several days to complete the final review of this accident."