Jefferson County, TN — Tragedy struck on Saturday night when a fatal accident on I-40 claimed the life of Jeremy Sutton, a devoted paramedic with Jefferson County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and left his colleague, Sarah Brooks, injured. The crash occurred around 9:30 p.m. near the I-81 interchange and involved the ambulance they were in and a tractor-trailer.
The ambulance was responding to an urgent call concerning a crash with injuries in the area. While traveling southbound on I-81 with emergency lights activated, the ambulance attempted to cross over to access I-40 East. It was at this point that the vehicle collided with a tractor-trailer that was merging onto I-81 from I-40 West. According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), the initial investigation indicates that the ambulance turned in front of the tractor-trailer at a small crossover, resulting in the fatal collision.
Jeremy Sutton, who tragically lost his life in the crash, was well-known for his steadfast dedication to serving his community as an EMS provider. His career was marked by the countless lives he impacted through his compassionate and professional care. Although he was rushed to the University of Tennessee Medical Center following the accident, Sutton succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Sarah Brooks, who was in the ambulance with Sutton, sustained injuries in the crash but is currently reported to be in stable condition at the same medical center. The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 67-year-old man from Georgia, was unharmed in the incident and was found to be wearing a seatbelt, a precaution that Sutton and Brooks had unfortunately not taken.
The loss of Jeremy Sutton has deeply affected the Jefferson County community and the broader EMS family. Known for his commitment to providing critical care in emergencies, Sutton was a respected figure both among his colleagues and the residents he served. His passing is a significant loss for Jefferson County EMS, which is now mourning the death of a dedicated and compassionate team member.
This incident also serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent dangers that emergency medical personnel face as they work to save lives. The circumstances of the crash highlight the risks associated with emergency response, particularly when speed and the urgency of medical intervention intersect with other hazards on the road.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the crash. While the initial findings suggest that the ambulance’s maneuver to access I-40 East was a key factor, further investigation is needed to fully understand what occurred.
Authorities have not yet indicated whether any charges will be filed in relation to the accident, as the investigation is still ongoing. However, the THP’s preliminary report underscores the critical importance of road safety, especially for emergency vehicles operating under high-pressure situations.
As the investigation proceeds, the community is coming together to support Sarah Brooks during her recovery and to honor Jeremy Sutton’s memory. Plans for a memorial service are underway, with many expected to attend to pay tribute to Sutton’s life and service.
This tragic event serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by emergency responders and the unpredictable dangers they face in their line of work. The Jefferson County community, while grieving the loss of one of its own, stands united in support of those who continue to serve on the front lines, risking their lives to help others.
