An East Tennessee community grieves the loss of Fourth Judicial District Circuit Court Judge O. Duane Slone after a pedestrian crash in late August took his life. The Regional Forensic Center in Knoxville has released an autopsy report providing insights into the tragic events leading to Slone's death. According to WBIR, the report cites "multiple blunt trauma" as the cause of death and classifies it as an accident.
The autopsy additionally noted that Slone had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.256, well over Tennessee’s legal limit of 0.08. Alongside the alcohol, a "low level of amphetamine" was present in his system, with no indications from the autopsy report of drug abuse. As per a statement obtained by WVLT News, witnesses last saw Slone "staggering ‘all over’ the eastbound lane of travel while walking down the highway," a behavior that preceded the unfortunate event.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) identified the location of the incident on E. Highway 25/70 near Mountain Vista Trail in Jefferson County, mentioning that Slone was struck around 1:20 a.m. by a 2010 Ford Fusion. As reported by WVLT News, the judge was walking along the highway after experiencing a flat tire, which possibly explains why he found himself on the road in the early hours. Slone’s own vehicle was consequently discovered nearby, the interior emitting a "strong odor of alcohol," as described by THP officials.
The driver involved in the collision is not facing charges at this time. Road conditions on the night of Slone’s death were described as 'extremely dark,' complicating visibility. This, along with Slone's unexpected presence on the road, likely contributed to the driver's inability to see him in time to prevent the tragedy. Slone, known for founding his judicial district's Drug Recovery Court in 2009, was honored for his efforts to help those struggling with addiction. His sudden passing resonated through the community, with many expressing their sorrow and admiration for the judge's impact.
