A 96-year-old resident of Shannondale Assisted Living Facility in West Knoxville died early morning yesterday after a vehicle crashed into his room. The Knoxville Police Department responded to the scene at 7350 Middlebrook Pike around 5:15 a.m. According to WATE, a minivan drove at high speed from a nearby apartment complex, crossed four lanes of Middlebrook Pike, and struck the building, hitting the victim.
The driver, identified as 24-year-old Eleasah Williams, has been charged with vehicular homicide with recklessness. WVLT reported that Williams sustained non-life-threatening injuries and will be booked after being released from the hospital. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with homicide detectives and other divisions involved, according to a Knoxville Police spokesperson.
Shannondale of Knoxville released a statement expressing condolences and confirmed they are taking steps to ensure the safety of other residents. The facility is working to repair the damage and has made chaplain services available. WBIR reported that structural engineers are assessing the condition of the impacted area.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected as authorities continue their review of the incident.
