Samuel R. Cross, 48, was identified by THP trooper John Cochran as the driver of a 1993 Ford Ranger pickup which crashed into an 18-wheeler.
Cross was killed in the crash, which occurred just after 10 p.m..
According to his report, Cochran’s investigation revealed the driver of the truck was identified as Douglas Weaver, 55, of London, Ky.
Weaver was headed northbound on Hwy. 411 when Cross reportedly attempted to negotiate a turn and left the right side of the roadway. Cross then over-corrected his truck “into the path of the tractor trailer.”
The 1995 Peterbuilt truck and trailer was hauling potatoes, according to the report.
Weaver was not injured and was wearing his safety restraint.
Cross was not buckled up when the crash occurred, according to Cochran.
Polk County Sheriff’s Office officials indicated the crash occurred just north of Benton Shooter’s Supply where roadway construction makes a transition.
- Bradley County Fire Rescue responded to a residential fire at Hiwassee Road Monday afternoon.
Commander Don Tankersley said a possible lightning strike from a nearby thunderstorm caused the fire.
Firefighters arrived on the scene and flames were present under the carport.
Crews entered the home as well as doused flames on the exterior.
Tankersley said the homeowners were out of town on vacation.
A neighbor noticed the fire and alerted officials.
The home was owned by Phillip and Holly Strickland.
Loss and damage was estimated at $125,000.
