KINGSPORT, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – The Dobyns-Bennett High School Band is coming together to support one of its students after the student’s parents were killed in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 40 in Knoxville.
In a statement released by the band program, officials said the student was traveling safely on the band’s bus while returning from a competition when the tragic crash occurred. The student’s parents were among those killed in the collision.
While the band’s announcement did not specifically identify the crash, a Tennessee Highway Patrol report has confirmed that a 22-year-old driver is facing charges following a wrong-way crash near Sutherland Avenue that left two people dead.
“Our band student, who was traveling with the band on the bus, is now facing the unimaginable loss of both of her parents as a result of this accident,” the band said in a statement.
The student was not hurt in the crash, according to school officials.
Community Rallies Around Student
Band leaders said families, students and supporters quickly began reaching out to ask how they could help after learning about the tragedy.
“The Dobyns-Bennett Band has always been rooted in community, service, and sacrifice,” the statement said. “That ‘One Tribe’ spirit has been especially evident today through the outpouring of requests from families wanting to support this student and her extended family.”
To coordinate assistance, the band said contacts have been designated within the school’s counseling office and the booster organization.
Officials said the goal is to provide meaningful support while also respecting the family’s privacy during a difficult time.
“We have designated a contact person in the counseling office and a contact person within our Booster organization to help coordinate our collective response,” the statement said. “This will allow us to be intentional in our support while remaining mindful of the family’s needs, privacy, and space to grieve.”
Investigation Continues
The Tennessee Highway Patrol has released limited information about the fatal crash. Authorities have confirmed the wrong-way driver survived and was hospitalized. Criminal charges have been filed in connection with the crash.
Additional details about the victims and circumstances surrounding the collision have not yet been released.
As the investigation continues, the Dobyns-Bennett community is focusing on supporting the student as she copes with the loss of both parents.
