Beloved Hartselle Woman, Nancy Fox, Fatally Shot in Tragic Domestic Incident on Stage Road
Hartselle, AL – July 3, 2025 — A somber cloud hangs over the town of Hartselle following a heartbreaking act of violence that claimed the life of 59-year-old Nancy Deanne Sandlin Fox, a cherished community member known for her warmth, faith, and compassion. The tragedy unfolded Thursday morning on Stage Road, sending shockwaves through the quiet residential neighborhood and leaving residents grappling with disbelief.
According to the Hartselle Police Department, officers were dispatched around 9:00 a.m. in response to a distress call reporting a domestic disturbance and the presence of an armed individual at a home in the 1200 block of Stage Road. When law enforcement arrived on the scene, they discovered Nancy Fox inside the residence with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel pronounced her dead at the scene.
Detectives immediately secured the area and launched an investigation into the fatal incident, treating it as a homicide. A person of interest was taken into custody shortly thereafter, although authorities have not publicly confirmed the suspect’s identity or the nature of their relationship to the victim. Police say there is no ongoing threat to the public, and that the shooting appears to have stemmed from a domestic dispute.
“Nancy was a vibrant soul, deeply involved in the community and well-loved by everyone who knew her,” said Hartselle Police Chief Justin Barley during a brief press conference. “This is an unspeakable loss for her family, friends, and for Hartselle as a whole. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served.”
Neighbors described hearing a heated argument before the sound of gunfire erupted. One neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, recalled, “I heard yelling, then several loud bangs. I ran to the window and saw the police arrive within minutes. It’s just devastating to know something like this happened so close to home.”
Nancy Fox was remembered by those who knew her as a woman of strong faith, kindness, and quiet strength. A longtime resident of Hartselle, she was active in her church community and known for her involvement in local charitable efforts and her dedication to helping others. Tributes have already begun pouring in on social media, with friends and former coworkers sharing memories of her infectious laugh, her warm heart, and her unwavering generosity.
The Morgan County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Fox’s body was transported for autopsy, and investigators are awaiting the results to support their findings. Meanwhile, detectives are continuing to interview witnesses and gather evidence from the scene.
The Hartselle Police Department has urged anyone with additional information about the case to come forward. “Even the smallest detail could be important to our ongoing investigation,” Chief Barley emphasized.
As the community mourns the tragic loss of Nancy Deanne Sandlin Fox, local leaders have called for unity and support for the grieving family. A candlelight vigil is being planned by members of her church to honor her life and legacy.
What began as a routine summer morning in a peaceful Alabama neighborhood ended in heartbreak. And now, Hartselle must come together to seek healing in the wake of a tragedy that has left an indelible scar on its heart.