Rickman, TN (August 12, 2025) – One person was killed and another was injured following a tragic three-vehicle crash on Highway 111 near the Highway 293 intersection on Monday afternoon.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), 39-year-old Erica Simpson of Tennessee was traveling south on Highway 111 in the left lane of her 2007 Chevrolet Silverado when the incident occurred around 5:13 p.m. At the same time, 79-year-old Phillip Dean, also from Tennessee, was driving a 2007 Honda Civic northbound on Highway 111 and attempted to turn left at a crossover just north of Highway 293 to head southbound. Dean’s vehicle collided with the driver’s side of Simpson’s Silverado, causing her truck to rotate counterclockwise, overturning across the median and into the northbound lanes.
As Simpson’s vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic, it struck a third vehicle, a 2009 Nissan Murano driven by 37-year-old Joshua Crabtree, who was traveling in the right lane of northbound Highway 111. Simpson’s vehicle came to a stop on its top, facing east across the right lane and shoulder of the highway. Crabtree’s vehicle came to a halt just north of the impact area, facing east across the right lane. Dean’s vehicle came to a controlled stop in the southbound turn lane. While Simpson tragically lost her life in the crash, Crabtree was reported to have suffered injuries, though the exact extent of his injuries remains unclear. Dean was unharmed but is facing charges pending the outcome of the investigation.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
Highway 111 Collisions: Understanding Common Causes and Preventive Measures
Accidents on busy highways like 111 can often be attributed to factors such as impaired visibility, improper lane changes, or failure to yield. In this particular incident, the failure to properly yield when turning across the lanes led to a tragic chain of events. Such crashes highlight the importance of vigilance when driving, especially on highways with multiple lanes and intersections.
Highway 111 has seen its fair share of accidents over the years, and while driving defensively can reduce risks, proper infrastructure and traffic control measures also play a critical role in accident prevention. Local authorities are continuously working to improve safety features on highways, but it’s equally important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings, obey traffic laws, and remain cautious when navigating intersections and crossovers.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
