KPD e-News Release: Kingsport Police Release Preliminary Update on I-81 Tractor Trailer Crash

	Kingsport Police Department 200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660 ThomasMPatton • 423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-224-2786 (FAX) http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com
NEWS RELEASE
SUBJECT:		Kingsport Police Release Preliminary Update on I-81 Tractor Trailer Crash
DATE:		April 24, 2017
CASE #:		17-009381

GENERAL NARRATIVE
On April 24, 2017 at approximately 12:30 PM, Kingsport Police Patrol and Traffic Enforcement Officers were already on the scene of a serious single motor vehicle rollover collision on southbound Interstate 81 in the vicinity of mile-marker 64. This first crash necessitated a medical transport helicopter landing resulting in a temporary roadway closure. Southbound traffic was beginning to back up and at a complete standstill. About a mile back, at roughly mile-marker 65, the operator of a southbound tractor trailer failed to stop and rear-ended stopped traffic ahead resulting in a multi-vehicle pileup. At least two additional tractor trailers and a passenger vehicle were involved. Serious injuries in this crash necessitated a second medical transport helicopter landing. Due to the complex and ongoing nature of this tractor trailer crash investigation, no additional details will be released at this time. A follow up news release will be issued as the investigation progresses; however, this will not likely occur until sometime tomorrow, Tuesday, April 25, 2017. Southbound Interstate 81 currently remains closed to allow for the thorough investigation of this crash and the safe removal of damaged vehicles and debris. TDOT detours are still in effect; however, crews hope to have the roadway back open soon. Motorists should make every possible effort to plan an alternate route, and avoid this area altogether for the time being. Anyone already in the immediate area is asked to remain patient and alert, and to follow all traffic directions.