Driver dies after wrong-way crash on Alcoa Highway

ALCOA, Tenn. ( WATE ) — Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in a wrong-way crash along Alcoa Highway on Saturday night that resulted in the death of a 45-year-old man, according to the Alcoa Police Department.

Alcoa Police shared an update on the crash Wednesday morning and identified the driver who later died at the hospital. Two other people who were in another car involved in the crash were taken to the hospital with serious injuries, but have since been released.

APD stated that on September 7, 2024, at approximately 10:15 p.m. officers responded to a report of a wrong-way driver traveling southbound on Alcoa Highway in the Northbound Lanes near the Green Acres Flea Market. An APD officer/K-9 handler reportedly witnessed a white 2003 Toyota Avalon traveling the wrong way and avoiding a near collision.

“The officer attempted to catch up to the vehicle and reported that the vehicle had crashed with another car, a 2019 gray Nissan Altima, in a head-on manner,” APD stated. “The driver of the Toyota Avalon, Jose Ramos (45) was transported to the University of Tennessee Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Alcohol is believed to have been a factor in this crash.”

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APD also asked that if anyone has information about the incident, to please contact Lieutenant Stevenson at (865) 380-4918 or dstevenson@cityofalcoa-tn.gov

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