KNOXVILLE SPORTS JOURNALIST VICTIM OF FATAL CAR ACCIDENT
On February 19, 2026, a tragic multi-vehicle crash occurred on I-40 West near Cedar Bluff Road in Knoxville around 4:50 p.m. The incident began when a vehicle stopped for traffic was rear-ended by another, causing minor damage and triggering a chain reaction as an additional vehicle struck the second one. Seconds later, a large pickup truck collided with and climbed on top of one of the involved vehicles, fatally injuring its driver, an adult male who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash involved five vehicles in total. The Knoxville Police Department’s crash reconstruction team is leading an ongoing investigation in its early stages.
An update released the following morning, February 20, 2026, identified the victim as Wesley Rucker, 43, of Knoxville. Rucker was a well-known local sports journalist who covered University of Tennessee athletics for outlets including WBIR and others.
We at 3B Media News extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as colleagues.
