Two University of Alabama fraternity brothers were killed in a house fire in Evergreen, Alabama, early Wednesday morning. Mark “McNeil” Mostellar, 21, and James “Walter” Hensley II, 19, were pronounced dead at the scene by the Conecuh County Coroner’s Office around 1:30 a.m. The cause of the fire has not yet been released.
Mostellar and Hensley were on a hunting trip with two friends who managed to escape the fire. These two individuals were hospitalized with injuries. Mostellar was a standout athlete who played linebacker for UMS-Wright Preparatory School. His former coach, Terry Curtis, described him as a player with a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of his position. Hensley was a freshman business major and a member of the Greek Basketball Association. He had graduated from St. Paul’s high school just one year prior.
A vigil was held at the school to honor the students. The Conecuh County Coroner's Office stated that additional information would be provided as the investigation progresses and allows.
Mostellar and Hensley were members of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity, which is noted as the oldest fraternity in Alabama.