South Charleston, WV (June 25, 2026) – A tractor-trailer driver lost his life following a fiery crash involving a commercial truck and a passenger vehicle on Interstate 64 near South Charleston.
According to officials, the collision occurred around 5:25 p.m. on June 24 on I-64 West near Exit 54. Emergency crews responded to the scene after reports of a serious crash involving a tractor-trailer and a car.
South Charleston Fire Chief Virgil White confirmed that one fatality resulted from the crash. Authorities later identified the victim as 63-year-old Jeffrey Simons of Iowa, who was driving the tractor-trailer.
Following the collision, a fire erupted involving the tractor-trailer, prompting firefighters to work quickly to extinguish the flames. Images from the scene showed both the truck and the passenger vehicle hanging over the edge of a bridge after the impact. Officials also reported that the truck driver’s dog survived the crash and was safely rescued by responders.
The collision caused major traffic disruptions, reducing westbound traffic to a single lane and forcing authorities to reroute vehicles onto MacCorkle Avenue while crews remained on scene. The circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Jeffrey Simons during this difficult time.
Why Commercial Vehicle Crashes Require Large Emergency Responses?
Crashes involving tractor-trailers can create especially hazardous conditions due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. When fires, bridge impacts, or significant vehicle damage occur, emergency crews face complex rescue and recovery operations.
Investigators typically examine roadway evidence, vehicle damage, witness statements, driver records, and mechanical conditions to determine how the collision occurred. In incidents involving fatalities, authorities may conduct a comprehensive reconstruction of the crash scene.
Major highway closures are common following these incidents, as responders work to extinguish fires, remove damaged vehicles, assist victims, and safely reopen the roadway. The findings from the investigation help authorities identify the factors that contributed to the crash.
