Horrific wrecks claim four

By Eddie West Staff Writer

Four people were killed and three injured in two horrific accidents Tuesday night (September 24), marking one of the deadliest days on roadways in the county in some time.

The four deceased individuals and those injured each lived outside the county. Some were from Davidson and Dickson counties. Others were from out of state.

The first accident occurred around 7:30 p.m., at the 263 mile marker on Interstate 40 in the west bound lanes.

The site of the initial accident was the second bridge crossing the Caney Fork River just west of the Smith County Welcome (known locally as the Buffalo Valley Rest Area).

A vehicle went over the bridge’s concrete railing, plunging several feet downward, landing on its top partially on the bank of the river and partially in the river, according to emergency personnel who were at the scene.

Sheriffs department deputies who were in the area of the accident, waded into the water to reach the victims.

The wreck was reported to 911 as a roll-over with victims in the water, according to emergency personnel.

READ MORE IN THIS WEEK’S COURIER