Yesterday, a wrong-way crash on Interstate 24 in Smyrna resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left others injured. According to WKRN, 43-year-old Juan Jesus De Leon Palala of Tennessee was driving his 2015 Kia Soul eastbound in the westbound lanes, causing multiple collisions. The crash claimed the lives of Palala and another driver, 34-year-old Nicholas Barycz, also of Tennessee.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) noted Palala's vehicle struck a 2014 Ford Explorer, driven by Barycz, and a 2013 Honda CRV, which carried three Florida natives, including a five-year-old girl. FOX17 reported the crash occurred at Almaville Road (mile marker 70) and highlighted that while the five-year-old was injured, the extent of the injuries was undisclosed.
TDOT reported that the westbound lanes of I-24 were inaccessible for hours, directing traffic to alternate routes as LifeFlight made its vital approach, necessitating road clearance, according to a spokesperson in statements obtained by WSMV. Reopening occurred promptly just after 9:15 a.m.
As investigations continue, reports from THP confirm that seatbelts were worn by all involved at the time of the crash. No charges are pending in connection with the incident, as per WKRN report.
