A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday night, October 30, 2024, when a pedestrian identified as Kelly Long was fatally struck on Highway 11-E in Hawkins County, Tennessee. The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) reported that the accident occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m., involving both a tractor-trailer and a 2021 Lincoln Corsair traveling southbound on the highway.
According to the THP crash report, Kelly Long, a 38-year-old resident of Tennessee, was found lying in the southbound lane of Highway 11-E, near N Main St. As both the tractor-trailer and the Lincoln Corsair approached, they collided with Long in succession, leading to her untimely death. Importantly, the report clarifies that the two vehicles did not make contact with each other at any time during the incident, raising significant questions about the circumstances that led to Long being on the highway in the first place.
Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, but tragically, Long was pronounced dead at the site of the accident. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the drivers or passengers of the vehicles involved. As of now, the THP has indicated that no charges have been filed in connection with this incident, as their investigation continues.
This heartbreaking event has cast a spotlight on the ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian safety on busy highways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise across the United States, with an estimated 7,388 pedestrians killed in 2021 alone, a staggering increase of 13% compared to the previous year. The THP is urging pedestrians to remain vigilant and utilize designated crossing areas whenever possible, especially in areas with heavy vehicle traffic.
Authorities have also noted that pedestrian visibility is crucial, particularly during nighttime hours. In this case, the lack of clarity surrounding the circumstances leading to Long’s presence on the highway only amplifies the call for greater awareness and safety measures for pedestrians. The use of reflective clothing and the establishment of more pedestrian-friendly infrastructures, such as crosswalks and lighting along busy roadways, are among the recommendations made by safety advocates.
As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of Kelly Long. Friends and family are grappling with the tragic circumstances surrounding this accident, reflecting on the profound impact of such incidents. Long’s loved ones are left with unanswered questions about how and why she was on the highway. Many in the community are coming together to share their memories of Long, painting a picture of a person whose life was tragically cut short.
Local residents are also engaging in discussions about road safety and pedestrian awareness. Some community members have called for increased signage and better lighting along Highway 11-E to help prevent future tragedies. Others have suggested public awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and pedestrians about the importance of road safety.
As the THP continues to gather information related to the incident, they are asking anyone with details to come forward. Their dedication to understanding the full context of this tragedy aims not only to provide closure for Long’s family but also to prevent similar incidents in the future. Authorities are emphasizing the need for a collective effort in fostering a safer environment for all who share the road.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by pedestrians, particularly in high-traffic areas. As the community reflects on this tragic event, there is a renewed call for awareness, compassion, and safety on the roads. The hope is that by shining a light on these issues, steps can be taken to ensure that such heartbreaking incidents become a thing of the past.
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