DECATUR, Ala. – A Wallace State Community College faculty member was killed in a house fire in the early morning hours of Friday, Dec. 26, 2025.
According the reporting from WHNT News 19, Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn identified the victim as Susan Beck, 62, of Decatur.
WHNT said Morgan County 911 dispatched Decatur Fire & Rescue to a house fire in the 1200 block of Seton Avenue Southeast around 1:44 a.m.
“Upon arrival, firefighters noticed a single-family home that was in flames. After immediately searching the home, crews received information indicating that someone may still have been inside the home during the fire,” it reported. “According to Decatur Fire & Rescue, one person was found during search and rescue efforts and was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of injuries sustained in the fire.”
Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics confirmed Beck was a faculty member, saying in a statement, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Susan Beck, a longtime distinguished faculty member and cherished member of our Wallace State family. She was a devoted educator who truly cared for her students and colleagues, and she leaves a lasting legacy at our college. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
WHNT said fire investigators with Decatur Fire & Rescue, along with the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office, responded to the scene and have begun an active investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
Reactions poured in online on The Cullman Tribune’s Facebook page.
Deb Stanulevich wrote, “She was one of the best teacher you could have ever have. She cared for her students and helped them being ready for a 4 year university. She will be missed so much.”
“I hate this so much. I loved having her as a teacher. Very attentive, so caring to all of her students. Praying for the family!” posted Veronica LaShay Dingler.
JR Bowling, a candidate for Alabama Senate, wrote, “This is heartbreaking news I loved Ms Beck she was always the best…. Prayers for the family.”
“So sad. Susan was such a sweet person, I enjoyed working with her as a secretary for the HUS program at WSCC. Praying for her family,” said Shirley Helms Moore.
