EAST RIDGE, TN – On Tuesday, East Ridge police released more information about the fatal multi-vehicle crash on I-75 Sunday.
According to new details from Local 3 News, the collision occurred after the driver of the tractor-trailer had failed to slow down in congested traffic and rear-ended six vehicles. At least one vehicle caught on fire after getting struck.
Police later confirmed two people died. They were identified as 61-year-old David “Jeff” Huggins of Dawsonville, Georgia, and 23-year-old Lane Smith of Fayetteville, Tennessee. The seven other occupants survived. Two children received treatment for critical, life-threatening injuries, and two adults appeared to be in serious condition as they were sent to the ICU.
The two other adults were treated for minor injuries. Officers confirmed these were the good samaritans who tried to free the occupants from their burning vehicle(s).
Officers have identified the truck driver as 65-year-old Joseph Antoinier, who was booked into jail. He was met with the following charges: “reckless homicide, felony reckless endangerment, and reckless aggravated assault.”
If you were injured or lost a loved one as a result of a truck-related collision, our Tennessee truck accident lawyer is ready to help you take legal action against the truck driver or party responsible for your crash. Our attorney won’t rest until maximum compensation is achieved. Discuss your next steps over a free consultation. Contact Truck Accident Lawyers LLC at (888) 774-5836 or reach out online.