LOUDON COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Two people have been charged following a serious crash in Loudon County that left two people critically injured and led to a chemical spill involving a commercial vehicle.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the crash happened shortly after 9:30 a.m. Monday on Highway 72 near the Monroe County line.
Investigators said a Nissan Altima traveling southbound failed to maintain its lane and drifted near the northbound fog line in front of a Ford F-250.
THP reported the driver of the Ford attempted to avoid a collision by moving into the southbound lane. However, authorities said the Nissan then corrected its course, resulting in a head-on crash between the two vehicles.
The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office said two people suffered critical injuries in the crash. One victim was flown by medical helicopter to a regional trauma center for treatment.
Officials said the Ford was hauling chemicals at the time of the collision, causing a spill at the crash scene. Emergency crews responded, and authorities later determined the spill posed no threat to the public.
Following the investigation, THP charged the driver of the Nissan with:
- Two counts of vehicular assault
- Possession of a Schedule II narcotic
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Additional traffic-related violations
Troopers said the Nissan’s passenger was also charged with:
- Seat belt violation
- Simple possession of a Schedule II narcotic
Authorities noted that neither occupant of the Nissan was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Ford F-250 was wearing a seat belt and is not facing any charges, according to THP.
Additional information about the victims’ conditions or the identities of those involved has not been released.
