TULLAHOMA, Tenn. (WTVF) — Authorities are investigating after a child riding a bicycle to school was struck and killed by a dump truck Tuesday morning in Tullahoma. It happened early morning at the intersection of Country Club Drive and Kings Lane.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the investigation. As of Tuesday afternoon, authorities had released few details about the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The fatal collision has shaken residents in the area, including Phil "Pops" Pettay, who lives nearby and frequently walks on the Russell Nelms Bike Trail. "Oh it's terrible," Pettay said.
Pettay said it is common to see students walking or biking to school in the area, particularly those who live near the nearby elementary and middle schools. "I see them walk by my house every day," he said.
According to Pettay, the intersection where the crash occurred is especially busy during the hours when students are traveling to and from school. "It's a busy intersection two times a day, because you've got a school down there and a school down there," he said.
While investigators work to determine exactly what happened, Pettay noted that the intersection's current three-way configuration is relatively new. He believes some drivers may still be adjusting to the change. "I think because it's still pretty new, some people just in their minds, it hasn't registered," Pettay said.
Pettay said he has personally experienced moments of confusion while navigating the intersection. "I've had it happen to me a couple of times. Driving along and not paying attention and hit the brakes," he said.
As the investigation continues, Pettay hopes the tragedy serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant behind the wheel. "People are going to be more alert now maybe," he said.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol has not yet released additional information about the child, the driver of the dump truck, or what factors may have contributed to the crash.
In a statement, the Tullahoma Police Department says, "Our hearts are with the child's family during this unimaginably difficult time. Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, the City will not release or comment on any additional details. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. We ask the community to keep the family in their thoughts and to respect their privacy as they grieve."
NewsChannel 5 will continue to follow the investigation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at Chris.Davis@NewsChannel5.com.
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