DOTHAN: The family of Abimael Feliciano has taken legal action following his tragic death inside a Ford C-Max Hybrid, claiming the vehicle exposed him to deadly fumes during what was supposed to be a normal drive.
Feliciano was found unresponsive at a traffic light in Dothan on August 8, 2023. A press statement released by the family’s legal team says toxic hydrogen sulfide gas built up inside the vehicle, leading to his death.
An investigation later determined the source of the fumes was a battery vent tube that had become detached. The Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences confirmed Feliciano died from hydrogen sulfide poisoning.
Beasley Allen Law Firm and Jinks Crow, P.C. have filed their lawsuit in Arizona, naming Ford Motor Company and multiple dealerships as defendants. The suit alleges defective design, unsafe repair practices, and insufficient warning systems that could have prevented the incident.
Attorneys for the family argue that Ford failed to implement basic safety protections in its vehicles to prevent exposure to toxic gases.
The family is pursuing financial damages and pushing for greater awareness surrounding hybrid-battery safety, hoping no other family has to face a similar tragedy.
🎁Vaughn-Blumberg Services Spreads Holiday Cheer with Gift-Wrapping Fundraiser
DOTHAN, Vaughn-Blumberg Services is making the holidays a bit easier for local families this season by offering affordable gift-wrapping services, with all proceeds benefiting programs that support individuals with intellectual disabilities in Houston County.
Shoppers can stop by the nonprofit to have their gifts wrapped at budget-friendly rates based on package size. Prices start at just $3 for small items like video games, watches, or DVDs, and go up to $10 for extra-large gifts such as dollhouses or oversized boxes.
For those with a long list to tackle, Vaughn-Blumberg is also offering three Signature Packages:
Small boxes are complimentary, and other box sizes are just $1 each. Customers who bring their own wrapping paper can enjoy a $10 discount.
Organizers ask community members to allow adequate time for wrapping — especially as Christmas approaches. To schedule services or ask questions, call 334-793-3102.
Vaughn-Blumberg Services is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities and helping them actively participate in the community. Every bow and ribbon wrapped this season helps support that mission.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey is rallying residents to put a spotlight on the state’s standout small businesses as the U.S. Small Business Administration begins accepting nominations for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards.
This announcement follows her recent proclamation recognizing Saturday, Nov. 29, as “Small Business Saturday” across the state — an effort to boost awareness and celebrate local entrepreneurs.
Governor Ivey says Alabama’s business owners have what it takes to be recognized on a national level.
“Alabama is full of innovators and hardworking folks who take risks every day to grow their dreams,” Ivey said. “We want the nation to know what our businesses are achieving here at home. I encourage everyone to nominate the entrepreneurs who are making a real impact.”
Award categories include:
Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year
Women-Owned Small Business Person of the Year
Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
Rural-Owned Business of the Year
Nominations must be submitted online no later than 1 p.m. CT on December 22, 2025.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler emphasized that National Small Business Week is a chance to recognize the backbone of the nation’s economy — the 36 million businesses operating in communities big and small.
“These companies are the engine that keeps America moving forward,” Loeffler noted. “They provide jobs, invest in neighborhoods and strengthen our economic foundation.”
National Small Business Week is scheduled for May 3–9, 2026.
To help with the nomination process, the SBA Alabama District Office will host virtual informational workshops on December 3 and December 17 from 11 a.m. to noon CT.
Additional details, nomination forms and eligibility guidelines can be found at sba.gov/nsbw.
Winners from Alabama and other states will advance to compete for the national title of Small Business Person of the Year, with further opportunities to be honored in categories such as exporting, disaster response, procurement and Alabama-specific recognitions.
Local law enforcement is helping make Christmas brighter for children across Henry County through this year’s Toys for Tots donation drive.
Residents are encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys for both boys and girls. Items such as play guns, play knives, grenades, or any type of toy weapon are not accepted, ensuring gifts remain safe and age-appropriate for all children receiving them.
Donations can be dropped off now through December 5th at either of the following locations:
📍 Headland Police Department 📍 Henry County Dispatch 212 S. Main St. or 9 Park Street — Headland, Alabama 36345
Every donation brings joy and hope to a child in need this holiday season. The Headland Police Department and Henry County Dispatch thank the community in advance for their generosity and support. Let’s make this Christmas a little brighter for families!
