KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Authorities have identified 51-year-old Avery LeRue Eskridge of Knoxville as the man who died in a multi-vehicle crash on Maynardville Highway on Friday, June 14. The collision, which left three other individuals hospitalized with serious injuries, remains under investigation.
According to the crash report from law enforcement, Eskridge was driving a 2004 Porsche SUV northbound on Maynardville Pike at a high rate of speed. Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle aggressively passing other cars using the center turn lane before it began drifting into oncoming traffic.
The report indicates that a southbound Ford attempted to swerve to avoid Eskridge’s SUV at the last moment, but the two vehicles collided head-on. Following the initial impact, Eskridge’s vehicle overturned and struck a Chevrolet Cavalier, which was also traveling southbound.
Tragically, Eskridge was partially ejected from the SUV and pronounced dead at the scene. Three individuals from the other vehicles were transported to a local hospital with injuries described in the report as “suspected serious.”
Rural Metro Fire officials who responded to the scene confirmed that the extent of the wreckage strongly suggests excessive speed played a significant role in the crash.
“This crash is still under investigation, pending results from the Knox County Medical Examiner’s Office,” the crash report stated.
The accident caused significant traffic disruptions along Maynardville Highway as emergency crews worked to clear debris and investigate the scene.
Avery Eskridge’s sudden and tragic death has deeply affected his loved ones and the local community. Authorities urge drivers to exercise caution and obey posted speed limits to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.