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.
NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas — A 22-year-old motorcyclist was killed Wednesday night after being thrown from his motorcycle and struck by several vehicles on Interstate 35 in New Braunfels, authorities said.
New Braunfels police officers and fire crews responded at approximately 10:30 p.m. to the 2400 block of I-35 South, near the Schmidt Avenue overpass, following reports of a motorcycle crash.
Preliminary information indicates that the motorcyclist, identified as 22-year-old Weston Waxler, was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
Officials said Waxler was thrown from his motorcycle and was subsequently struck by several vehicles traveling through the area.
Waxler was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said his next of kin has been notified.
The fatal crash resulted in a lengthy closure of the southbound main lanes of Interstate 35. The affected section of the highway remained closed for approximately five and a half hours while traffic crews and investigators worked at the scene.
The closure caused traffic disruptions in the area as authorities processed the crash scene and conducted their investigation.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing. At this time, authorities do not expect criminal charges to be filed in connection with the crash.
Additional information may be released as the investigation continues.