Mason Cozelos

A Madison teen was killed Thursday in a hit-and-run wreck near Athens.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) said the crash happened around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 19 when a 16-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle that left the scene.

Authorities say the wreck occurred on East Limestone Road, about a 1/4 mile north of the intersection of East Limestone Road and Nick Davis Road.

The teen was pronounced dead at the scene. He was later identified in a Facebook post from Lawlers Barbecue as one of the employees at their Hughes Road location in Madison, Mason Cozelos.

“He was a fine young 16-year-old who was a joy to be around,” the post stated. “Mason lit up the place with his smile and customers loved him. We were blessed to have known him the short time he was able to be with us. Join us in praying for his family, especially his mom as they deal with this terrible tragedy. May God bring us all a little closer to Him and each other through our time of mourning.”

Mason was a student at James Clemens High School in Madison.

“We are saddened to hear of the loss of Mason Cozelos. He was a wonderful person and great student who will be dearly missed. Our prayers go out to his family and all Jets,” said the school’s principal Dr. Brian Clayton. “Extra counselors will be available on Monday at James Clemens to serve our students, faculty, and staff during this difficult time.”

While at James Clemens, Mason played on the school’s lacrosse team.

“The JC Jets Lacrosse family is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Mason Cozelos in a hit and run accident,” a social media post from the team said on Saturday. “Mason played lacrosse with passion and heart. He was awarded the ‘Hustle Award’ this spring because he always gave 100% on and off the field. Mason was a friend to all; he was always there for his friends and teammates to just listen or cheer them up with a good laugh. Mason will be missed by the JC Jets Lacrosse family and many more in the Madison community. Please join us in prayer for the Cozelos family during this difficult time”

If you have any information about this crime, please contact Limestone County Sheriff’s Office at (256) 232-0111.

“Mason was struck by a car while walking down the street and left to die…” a description of the GoFundMe account stated. “Mason deserved better than the way he was left to die and his family deserves answers and peace.”

It stated the fundraiser’s goal is to raise reward money in the hopes of bringing the driver to justice. All funds raised will go towards information identifying the person responsible.

Mason’s funeral is set for Saturday, Aug. 28, at Asbury Church at 11 a.m. Visitation is Friday evening, Aug. 27, at Legacy Chapel Funeral Home in Madison. Legacy Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.