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Asheville Tragedy: Fatal Collision and Firefighter Loss

Emergency services responding to a tragic collision in Asheville.

News Summary

Asheville faces grief following a fatal collision on Interstate 40 and the tragic death of firefighter Violet Caramella during UTV training. The community mourns their losses as investigations continue into both incidents, highlighting the dangers faced by first responders.

Asheville Reports Fatal Collision and Tragedy in Firefighter Training

Asheville, N.C. – A serious collision and vehicle fire on Interstate 40 resulted in one fatality near mile marker 45 around 2 p.m. on Thursday. According to local authorities, all eastbound lanes were temporarily closed after Exit 44 due to the incident, causing significant traffic delays in the area.

Witnesses reported seeing flames and thick black smoke billowing from the crash site behind a highway barrier. Asheville police confirmed that one individual was pronounced dead at the scene, with further details about the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

The Asheville Fire Department noted that eastbound traffic was heavily congested, leading to a temporary diversion of vehicles to alleviate the situation. The specifics of the crash and the vehicles involved are currently under investigation by appropriate authorities.

Separate UTV Training Accident Claims Firefighter’s Life

In a related series of tragic events, Violet Caramella, a firefighter from the Riceville Volunteer Fire Department, lost her life in a separate incident involving a UTV (Utility Task Vehicle) during a training exercise in Montreat. Reports state that the UTV veered off the roadway and struck a tree, leading to fatal injuries for Caramella, who was the front passenger.

Additionally, two other firefighters involved in the accident sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Fortunately, their injuries are not life-threatening, and they are expected to recover fully.

Caramella had been with the Riceville Volunteer Fire Department for one year and was also a member of the Skyland Fire Department. She had attended Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and was well-regarded for her commitment to service, her family, and the community.

The Riceville Fire Chief expressed profound sadness over Caramella’s death, highlighting the impact she had made in her short time with the department. She leaves behind a husband, two children, and a supportive extended family within the emergency services community.

Community Honors Fallen Firefighter

To honor her memory, the Riceville and Skyland Fire Departments organized a tribute escort for Caramella, with personnel and fire apparatus positioned on overpasses along I-40 to pay their respects. This show of solidarity reflects the tight-knit community bond among firefighters and first responders.

Ongoing Investigations into Both Incidents

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is currently investigating the UTV accident with assistance from the Collision Reconstruction Unit, which will examine the circumstances leading to the tragic accident in an effort to prevent future incidents. UTVs are frequently employed in rescue missions, and thorough training is essential for firefighter safety.

Additionally, authorities are continuing to gather information regarding a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on Tunnel Road near Interstate 240, which resulted in a number of injuries and necessitated road closures. Efforts are underway to understand the full scope of this incident and its implications for road safety in the area.

As investigations progress, the Asheville community is grappling with the loss of life and the dangers inherent in emergency service work, highlighting the sacrifices made daily by first responders.