VSP Investigating I-81 Dump Truck/Sheriff’s Vehicle Accident

The Virginia State Police are investigating a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 81 in Shenandoah County. The crash occurred Friday, May 3, at 5:46 a.m. at the Route 646 overpass at the 292-mile maker of I-81.

A 2005 Kenworth dump truck was traveling north on I-81 when the driver accidentally engaged the dump bed, which raised it and caused it to collide with the bridge overpass. The collision caused the dump bed to detach from the truck, slide backward, and land on a northbound 2022 Ford Explorer, which was driven by a Frederick County Sheriff’s deputy.

The dump truck driver, Gaylon R. Miller, 71, of Toms Brook, Va., was not injured in the crash. He was wearing his seatbelt.

The sheriff’s deputy suffered minor injuries and was transported to Winchester Medical Center for treatment.

Miller was charged with reckless driving.

These photos indicate what a close call this deputy appears to have had. – Photos by Virginia State Police who authorize their publication.

(From a Release by the Virginia State Police)