Local News
Cynthia Paulie and 6-Year-Old Lucy Belle Killed in Head-On Crash with Semi-Truck on State Route 8 in Sequatchie County
SEQUATCHIE COUNTY, Tenn. — Two people, including a 6-year-old child, were killed and four others were injured following a devastating head-on collision involving an SUV and a tractor-trailer on State Route 8 near Cagle Mountain in Sequatchie County, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).
The fatal crash occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m. on June 19 and resulted in a lengthy highway closure, significant damage to utility infrastructure, and a large emergency response.
According to THP’s preliminary crash report, a 2001 Ford Expedition traveling northbound on State Route 8 crossed the center line and entered the southbound lane, where it collided head-on with a Coca-Cola tractor-trailer.
Investigators said the southbound commercial vehicle, a 2017 Mack tractor-trailer, was being operated by Andrew G. Tomkins, 56, of Tennessee.
Following the initial impact, the tractor-trailer left the roadway and struck a utility pole, causing damage to electrical infrastructure near the Cagle Mountain Trading Post and resulting in a power outage in the surrounding area.
Authorities identified the driver of the Ford Expedition as Cynthia A. Paulie, 69, of Indiana. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead as a result of the crash.
A 6-year-old child who was riding in the SUV also suffered fatal injuries and died following the collision.
The Ford Expedition was occupied by a total of five individuals from Indiana. Among the injured was Meredith Allen, 42, who was transported for medical treatment.
Two additional children, ages 6 and 9, also sustained injuries in the crash and were treated by emergency responders.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, Andrew G. Tomkins, was injured as well and received medical attention.
According to THP, every person involved in the collision either sustained injuries or died as a result of the crash.
The collision prompted a major response from law enforcement, fire personnel, emergency medical services, and utility crews. State Route 8, also known as Highway 111 through the Cagle Mountain area, remained closed for an extended period while investigators documented evidence, removed damaged vehicles, and repaired utility infrastructure.
The damaged utility pole caused power disruptions in the area, further complicating recovery efforts.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary findings indicate the Ford Expedition crossed the center line before striking the tractor-trailer, though investigators are still reviewing all contributing factors.
At this time, authorities have reported that no charges are pending in connection with the crash.
Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
The tragic collision has left multiple families mourning and has deeply affected the Sequatchie County community. Condolences continue to pour in for the loved ones of those who lost their lives and for all those injured in the crash.
Local News
2-Year-Old Aurora Wenzel Dies After Devastating Two-Vehicle Crash in Isabella County, Michigan
ISABELLA COUNTY, Mich. — A heartbreaking traffic collision in Isabella County has claimed the life of 2-year-old Aurora Wenzel, a young girl from Alma, Michigan. The toddler died after a two-vehicle crash in Coe Township on Wednesday evening, November 11, 2026, leaving her family and loved ones facing an unimaginable loss.
According to the Michigan State Police, the collision occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. near the intersection of East Coe Road and South East County Line Road.
Aurora was a passenger in a 2023 Hyundai Kona involved in the crash. Despite being rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, the little girl sadly did not survive.
Investigators said a 2023 Hyundai Kona, driven by a 22-year-old man, was traveling westbound on East Coe Road when it was struck by a 2021 Chrysler Voyager.
The impact caused the Hyundai to overturn, leaving several people injured.
Aurora was among those inside the Hyundai. She sustained critical injuries and was transported to a hospital, where she later died.
The driver and two additional occupants of the Hyundai were also taken to the hospital. Their injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
Authorities have not provided further details about the occupants of the Chrysler Voyager or the full circumstances leading up to the collision.
Following the tragedy, Aurora’s mother, Natalie Long-Terwilliger, shared an emotional message on Facebook confirming the loss of her beloved daughter.
According to her mother’s account, the family had been returning home after a short shopping trip when the crash occurred.
She also shared a touching detail about Aurora’s final day. The little girl had spent time choosing beautiful winter dresses for her pageants and upcoming photographs.
What may have seemed like an ordinary shopping trip became a memory the family will carry forever. Those simple moments of happiness, spent together choosing outfits and enjoying time as a family, have now taken on a heartbreaking meaning.
At just two years old, Aurora had so much of childhood ahead of her. Her family had dreams to watch her grow, celebrate her milestones, and make countless memories together. Her life was tragically cut short before she had the chance to experience all that the future could have held.
Aurora’s mother also expressed gratitude to the people who stopped to help at the scene, the first responders, medical professionals, and the family members and friends who have offered support during this painful time.
Michigan State Police said alcohol and drugs do not appear to have been contributing factors in the collision.
Preliminary findings suggest that a driver may have failed to obey a stop sign. However, investigators have not completed their work, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.
Authorities have not announced any final conclusions regarding responsibility for the collision.
The loss of a young child is a devastating tragedy, and Aurora’s death has left her family facing a future without the little girl they loved so dearly.
Although her time on earth was heartbreakingly short, the memories she created with her family will remain part of their lives forever. Her final day, filled with the simple joy of choosing dresses and spending time with loved ones, will be remembered with both love and sorrow.
Our deepest condolences go out to Natalie Long-Terwilliger, Aurora’s father, their family, friends, and everyone mourning this precious little girl. May they find strength, comfort, and support as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Rest peacefully, sweet Aurora. Gone far too soon, loved beyond words, and never forgotten.