1-3-19 Traffic Crash / Fatal - 500 East 23rd St

· Vehicle 1 (GMC Safari) was traveling west on E. 23rd St in the slow lane, which turns into a merge lane.

· Vehicle 2 (International Semi) was also traveling west on E. 23rd St in the middle lane, which is a continuous lane.

· Vehicle 2 had established the lane and had the right of way.

· The driver of Vehicle 2, stated that he saw headlights beside him, and then noticed Vehicle 1 losing control in the roadway.

· It was determined by roadway evidence that the GMC attempted to pass the semi to merge in front of it, but was unable to pass it.

· Skid marks on the roadway show that Vehicle 1 then slammed the brakes, losing control and striking Vehicle 2.

· This caused Vehicle 1 to spin out in the roadway, and the strike the concrete barrier on the bridge.

· Hamilton County EMS responded to the scene and transported Driver 1 to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

· At this time, the investigation is ongoing in a logical manner.

· Anyone with information about this wreck is asked to call 423-698-2525. You can remain anonymous.

Driver 1 (Deceased):

Walter A. Berry (Male, 65)

Driver 2:

Michael S. McPherson (Male, 41)

Chattanooga Police ask anyone with information regarding this incident to call 423-698-2525. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released when available.

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NOTE: The preceding information is preliminary and is subject to change as the investigation continues.

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