With profound sadness, family, friends, and members of the Mobile and Evergreen communities mourn the tragic and sudden loss of James “Walter” Hensley II, 19, and Mark “McNeal” Mostellar, 21, who lost their lives in a devastating house fire in Conecuh County early Wednesday morning.
According to authorities, emergency crews responded around 1:30 a.m. on July 1, 2026, to a residential structure fire off Stowers Timberland Road near Evergreen, Alabama. Four individuals were inside the home when the fire broke out. Two occupants were able to escape and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Hensley and Mostellar were unable to escape and were later pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Conecuh County Coroner’s Office, along with the Evergreen Police Department, Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Alabama LP Gas Board, continue to investigate the cause and origin of the fire.
James Hensley II, affectionately known as “Walter,” was remembered as a young man full of promise and determination. A graduate of St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, he was pursuing a degree in business and was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Family and friends remember him for his kind spirit, strong character, and the bright future he was working toward.
Mark “McNeal” Mostellar was a graduate of UMS-Wright Preparatory School, where he stood out as a dedicated student-athlete. He competed in football, lacrosse, and track, earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and classmates. He was also pursuing a degree in business and shared close fraternity bonds with his peers.
Their sudden passing has left both families, friends, classmates, and communities in deep sorrow. Those who knew them are now holding tightly to cherished memories, reflecting on the lives they lived, the friendships they built, and the impact they made in such a short time.
As the investigation continues, loved ones are leaning on one another for strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time. Though their lives ended far too soon, James Hensley II and Mark Mostellar will be remembered for their youth, their promise, and the lasting love they leave behind.
May they rest in peace, and may their families find comfort and healing in the days ahead.
