David Quillin, Chief of Police

200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

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

Crash Investigators from the K.P.D. Traffic Unit responded to the scene and conducted a thorough reconstruction analysis of the collision. The results of their investigation are as follows:

A white 1996 Buick Park Avenue 4-door sedan, driven by Mabel L. Leeper, was eastbound on Memorial Boulevard and attempting a left turn to Glenwood Street. Meanwhile, a black 1998 Harley-Davidson motorcycle, operated by Ronald L. Burke, was westbound on Memorial Boulevard approaching the same intersection.

Ms. Leeper failed to yield the right-of way and turned into the path of Mr. Burke’s motorcycle. Mr. Burke was killed in the subsequent collision. Ms. Leeper sustained possible injuries and was transported to a local healthcare facility by Sullivan County E.M.S. for a precautionary medical evaluation.

This crash remains under active investigation by the K.P.D. Traffic Unit with charges pending. As such, no additional details can or will be released at this time.

As previously released:

On April 28, 2018 at approximately 1:15 PM, Kingsport Police Patrol Officers responded to a motor vehicle collision in the roadway in front of the Sunoco gas station and convenience store, located at 4001 Memorial Boulevard in Kingsport. Responding Officers determined that the crash involved a passenger car and a motorcycle and had resulted in a fatality.

Crash Investigators from the K.P.D. Traffic Unit have responded to the scene and are in the process of a thorough reconstruction analysis of the collision. While no additional details are available at this time, further information regarding this incident will be released at an appropriate point, pending the completion of the investigation and notification of next of kin.

Traffic is still flowing along Memorial Boulevard; however, it is periodically becoming congested. For the time being, motorists are encouraged to avoid the area and plan an alternate route so as to avoid unnecessary delays. Motorists already in the immediate area are encouraged to be alert, exercise caution and patience, and obey all traffic instructions.

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX)

ThomasMPatton