Former Linden athlete, DMS student die in car accident in Alabama

Former Linden quarterback Anthony Robinson Jr. and a 12-year-old Demopolis student lost their lives Sunday afternoon as a result of injuries sustained in a two-car accident.The accident happened about 4:50 p.m. on U.S. 43 two miles south of Linden. Robinson, 19, was driving a 1996 Chevrolet Blazer that collided with a 2013 International semi-truck driven by Leonard Essex of of Demopolis.Robinson and his passenger, Christopher “C.J.” Boykin, a Demopolis Middle School student, were both killed.Essex was injured and transported to Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital for treatment.Robinson signed earlier this year to play defensive back for the University of West Alabama. He was a four-year starter at quarterback and safety for the Linden Patriots, earning All-State honors three times.“It is our understanding that Anthony lost his life this afternoon in an automobile accident,” UWA Sports Information Director Kent Partidge said in an e-mail Sunday night. “We are still gathering information, but more importantly, praying for his family, friends and teammates.”Demopolis City Schools Superintendent Al Griffin said grief counselors would be in place to help students cope with the loss of Boykin when they return Tuesday from Labor Day holiday.Troopers released no further information as they continue to investigate.