Two Dead in Wrong-Way Crash on US-460 Near Lynchburg
A tragic accident on US-460 in Lynchburg, Virginia, Thursday night has left two individuals dead, authorities confirmed. The crash occurred shortly before 10:30 p.m. near the Candler’s Mountain Road exit, when a wrong-way driver collided head-on with another vehicle.
The Lynchburg Police Department identified the victims as Lawrence William Chambers, 69, of Pamplin, and James Jeffrey Elam, 68, of Lebanon. According to police reports, Chambers was driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of US-460 when his vehicle struck Elam’s car. The impact of the collision resulted in fatal injuries to both drivers, who were the sole occupants of their respective vehicles.
Authorities confirmed that no other individuals were involved in the crash, and there were no other reported injuries. The two men were alone in their vehicles at the time of the incident, and the collision occurred on a stretch of the highway where traffic normally runs in opposite directions.
The Lynchburg Police Department issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of those affected by the tragic event. "The Lynchburg Police Department extends its condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident," the statement read.
In the aftermath of the crash, authorities have launched an investigation to determine the factors that may have led to the wrong-way driving. While the investigation is ongoing, law enforcement officials have called on the public to assist with any information that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has any information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Lynchburg Police Department’s non-emergency number at 434-847-1602, or through Crime Stoppers at 888-798-5900. Additionally, members of the public can submit anonymous tips via an online form or through the P3 app on their mobile devices. For those wishing to remain anonymous by text, tips can be sent by texting CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to the tip form.
Wrong-way crashes, although relatively rare, can have catastrophic consequences, as this incident tragically underscores. Authorities are now focusing on gathering all the necessary information to understand how and why this crash occurred. While the investigation is in its early stages, this case serves as a reminder of the dangers of highway traffic and the need for heightened awareness on the roads. The community, shaken by the loss of two lives, remains hopeful that the authorities will soon have answers.
The fatal crash marks another devastating incident on Virginia's roadways, adding to the growing concern surrounding highway safety. With numerous drivers using these busy roads daily, experts continue to emphasize the importance of defensive driving and staying alert to prevent such incidents from occurring.
As this story continues to unfold, the Lynchburg Police Department urges those who may have seen anything unusual or who have any information that could assist in their investigation to reach out immediately. The families of both victims are left to mourn the loss of their loved ones, as authorities work tirelessly to uncover the details behind this tragic crash.
