200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

ThomasMPatton@KingsportTN.gov • 423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com

On August 29, 2014 at approximately 9:30 PM, a Kingsport Police Officer patrolling in the Highland Community heard the impact from a serious motor vehicle collision at the nearby intersection of Eastman Road and East Center Street. He immediately responded and arrived on scene just seconds after it occurred. Additional officers from the K.P.D. Patrol Division and Traffic Unit responded to the scene. An investigation into the crash revealed the following:

A 2003 Volkswagen Beetle, driven by Brittany L. Pearce, was northbound on Eastman Road approaching East Center Street preparing to go straight through the intersection. Meanwhile, a 1986 Chevrolet Pickup, driven by Donald W. Porter, was southbound on Eastman Road and made a left turn toward eastbound East Center Street directly into the path of the Volkswagen.

The two vehicles collided in an angular impact. Mr. Porter was not wearing his seatbelt and was instantaneously ejected from the pickup. The pickup itself was deflected into the parking lot located at the northeast corner of the intersection, where it came to rest.

The Volkswagen was redirected toward eastbound East Center Street and free-rolled approximately 50 yards down the roadway before coming to rest against a chain-link fence adjacent to the roadway.

Witnesses report that both vehicles had a green light as they approached the intersection, and that the lights had changed from green to yellow just prior to the crash.

Both drivers sustained injuries and were transported to Holston Valley Medical Center by Sullivan County E.M.S. Ms. Pearce’s injuries were non-life threatening; however, Mr. Porter’s injuries were life threatening, and he was initially listed in critical condition. On August 30, 2014 at approximately 6:00 AM, Mr. Porter died as a result his injuries.

The investigation into this crash by the K.P.D. Traffic Unit is ongoing.

Seatbelts would very likely have had a significant bearing in the outcome of this crash. The Kingsport Police Department continues to stress the importance of the wearing of seatbelts. Not only is it the law, but it might just save a life.

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit