News Summary
A serious crash on Interstate 40 near Asheville resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The incident involved a 1980 Chevrolet Corvette that may have had mechanical issues. Traffic was halted for over three hours as responses and investigations took place. The authorities are seeking public information regarding the incident, and concerns about road safety continue to be highlighted.
Asheville
One person died and two others were injured in a serious crash on Interstate 40 near Asheville on Thursday afternoon. The incident, which prompted a shutdown of the eastbound lanes for several hours, occurred around 1:55 p.m. near mile marker 45 in West Asheville.
According to the Asheville Police Department, the crash involved a 1980 Chevrolet Corvette driven by 56-year-old William Robinson. Preliminary investigations suggest that the vehicle may have experienced mechanical failure, causing it to come to a stop in the center lane of the interstate.
Shortly thereafter, a 2016 Ford Escape collided with the stationary Corvette after the driver was unable to stop in time. This rear-end collision resulted in the Corvette catching fire. The Asheville Fire Department quickly responded to extinguish the flames.
Unfortunately, William Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. The driver and passenger of the Ford Escape sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Mission Hospital for treatment.
Interstate 40 East was closed for approximately three and a half hours while authorities worked to manage the scene, investigate the circumstances of the crash, and ensure the safety of the area. Following the completion of the investigation, the Asheville Police Department will consult with the Buncombe County District Attorney’s Office to determine any potential legal actions.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are actively seeking information from the public regarding the collision. Individuals with any relevant information are encouraged to reach out to the Asheville Police Department at (828) 252-1110.
Background
This tragic event adds to the ongoing concerns regarding road safety in busy areas like I-40, a crucial route for both local and through traffic. The stretch where the crash occurred is known for its heavy use, especially during peak travel times. Authorities often remind drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially in situations where mechanical issues could arise on the road.
In the wake of this incident, officials continue to emphasize the importance of routine vehicle maintenance and awareness while driving to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Vehicle Fire on I-40 Asheville
- Wikipedia: Road Safety
- KOAT: Albuquerque I-40 Multiple Vehicle Crash
- Google Search: Interstate 40 traffic accidents
- KOB: I-40 Closed Due to Fatal Crash
- Action News 5: Man Ejected in I-40 Crash
