GENERAL NARRATIVE |
On Friday, March 13, 2015, at approximately 11:15 PM, Kingsport Central Dispatch was notified of a single vehicle tractor-trailer crash on Interstate 81 at mile marker 59 in Kingsport. Officers from the Kingsport Police Patrol Division immediately responded to the scene. Due to the severity of the crash and resultant injuries, the K.P.D. Traffic Unit was summoned and assumed the lead investigatory role. Their subsequent crash reconstruction analysis revealed the following:
A red 2008 Volvo semi/tractor-trailer, hauling approximately 30,000 pounds of frozen chicken, was northbound on Interstate 81 crossing a bridge at mile marker 59, just before the Colonial Heights exit. For unknown reasons, the truck suddenly swerved sharply to the right and struck a concrete barricade. The truck overrode the railing that topped the barricade and plunged roughly 50 feet to the railroad tracks below. The driver, a 67 year old white male from out of state, was seriously injured in the crash. He was transported to Holston Valley Hospital by Sullivan County E.M.S. for emergency treatment and is currently listed in critical condition. The truck itself was completely destroyed. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation by the K.P.D. Traffic Unit. The identity of the driver and the owner of the truck are temporarily being withheld pending notification of family and trucking company representatives. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash who has not yet spoken to investigators is asked to contact the K.P.D. Traffic Unit at 423-224-2750. |
COLLISION VEHICLE INFORMATION | ||
Make | Volvo | |
Year | 2008 | |
Type | Semi/Tractor-Trailer | |
Color | Red | |
Damage | Destroyed | |
Owner | Not Released Pending Notification | |
Driver | Name | Not Released Pending Notification |
Age | 67 Years of Age | |
Race/Gender | White/Male | |
Residency | Out of State/Not Released Pending Notification | |
Injuries | Serious Injuries/Critical Condition |
RELEASING OFFICER | ||
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Thomas M. Patton, Public Information Officer
Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit |
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