Black Rock, AR (January 21, 2026) – A fatal traffic accident on U.S. Highway 63 at the Black River Bridge in Black Rock claimed the life of one person and left another injured on Monday afternoon. According to an Arkansas State Police report, the crash occurred at approximately 12:09 p.m. on January 19. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene in Lawrence County after reports of a serious collision involving two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. One individual was pronounced deceased at the scene, while another sustained injuries and was transported for medical care.
Key Details
- Location: Black Rock, AR
- Where: US Hwy 63 / Black River Bridge
- Type: Fatal Accident
- Reported: January 19 at 12:09 PM
- Injuries: One fatality, one injured
- Responding Agency: Arkansas State Police
What We Know So Far
- The collision occurred on US Highway 63 at the Black River Bridge.
- A 2000 Mercury traveling westbound and a 1997 Ford traveling eastbound were involved.
- George Koettel, 42, of Imboden, was pronounced deceased following the crash.
- Randy Tribble, 51, of Pocahontas, was injured and taken to St. Bernards Medical Center.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The exact circumstances leading to the loss of control aren’t reported in the crash report.
- Whether additional contributing factors were identified beyond roadway conditions.
- The current medical condition of the injured individual.
- Whether further investigative findings will be released.
Local Context
The Black River Bridge along US Highway 63 is a key crossing point in Lawrence County, carrying steady traffic between communities such as Black Rock and Imboden. This section of roadway includes a bridge approach where lanes narrow, and drivers must remain alert to changing conditions. At the time of the crash, weather conditions were reported as cloudy with dry roads. Serious accidents in this area often require a coordinated response due to limited shoulder space near the bridge and the need to manage traffic flow while emergency crews work the scene.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved in a crash, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if medical help is needed.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with responding officers and emergency personnel.
- If it is safe to do so, document the scene by noting the time, location, and any relevant details.
- Monitor your health after an accident, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
FAQ
Q: Why are details sometimes limited immediately after a fatal accident?
A: In serious crashes, responders focus first on medical care and scene safety, with full details confirmed later through official reporting.
Q: What happens when a fatal traffic accident occurs?
A: Law enforcement secures the scene, documents evidence, and the coroner takes custody of the deceased while an investigation is completed.
Q: Where are injured crash victims typically taken for treatment?
A: Injured individuals are transported to nearby medical facilities capable of providing appropriate care, such as regional hospitals.
