WHITE PINE, Tenn. — A Jefferson County paramedic was killed and another seriously injured Saturday night when their ambulance collided with a tractor-trailer, according to authorities.
The tragic incident claimed the life of 44-year-old Jeremy Sutton, Assistant Chief of the Jefferson County Rescue Squad, while Paramedic Sara Brooks sustained severe injuries. Sutton succumbed to his injuries at the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where Brooks is currently receiving treatment.
The accident occurred as the ambulance attempted to access I-40 eastbound from a small crossover and turned in front of an oncoming tractor-trailer, as reported by WVLT. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation to determine whether charges will be filed against either driver involved in the crash.
Sutton, a 24-year veteran of Jefferson County EMS/EMA, was a well-respected member of the community. He was recognized for his expertise as a swift water rescue and hazmat technician. He also shared his knowledge as a health science instructor at Fulton High School.
On Sunday, streets were lined with people paying their respects as Sutton's body was escorted from the UT-Knoxville trauma center to the medical examiner's office by a procession of EMS, fire, and police vehicles. Family members expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community and fellow first responders as they mourned the loss of the father of three.
"Think about the family and what they have to go through at this time. It's tough because we’re all in that situation at some time," said Brian Karns of J-Hooks Towing, reflecting on the loss. "It could have been us in a different role, different scenario, but it’s tough. It opens your eyes to things like this, and when it happens, it’s a tragedy," Karns told WATE.
Emergency medical services (EMS) providers like Sutton face significant dangers in the line of duty. According to a report by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), EMS workers have a fatality rate that is more than double the national average for all workers. Traffic accidents remain one of the leading causes of death for EMS personnel, highlighting the inherent risks they take to provide critical care.
Funeral arrangements for Sutton have been set for the coming weekend. The body will lie in state on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lakeway Performing Arts Center in White Pine. The family will receive friends that afternoon from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the same venue on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 11 a.m., followed by a burial with Emergency Service Honors at White Pine Cemetery.
Instead of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Jefferson County Volunteer Rescue Squad or to a fund established for Sutton's children at Knoxville TVA Employees Credit Union.
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