LOGAN COUNTY, W.Va. — A tragic collision between a passenger car and a semi-truck has left one man dead and caused a complete shutdown of US-119 near Mecca Road in Logan County on Thursday morning. The deadly crash, which occurred around 8:30 a.m., is currently under investigation by the Logan County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO).
Details of the Collision
According to authorities, the crash involved a southbound car that, for reasons still under investigation, crossed the median and collided head-on with a northbound semi-truck. The semi was hauling a full load of cinder blocks, which were violently thrown across the highway upon impact, further complicating the scene.
The driver of the car — a male who has not yet been identified — was killed instantly as a result of the collision. He was reportedly the sole occupant of the vehicle. The truck driver survived the crash and was transported to a nearby hospital for observation. At this time, there are no reports of serious injuries to the truck driver.
Massive Traffic Disruption
As a result of the crash and the hazardous spill of heavy cinder blocks across all lanes, both directions of US-119 at the crash site remain completely shut down. The Logan County Sheriff’s Office has deployed deputies to reroute traffic around the corridor, while crews from the West Virginia Division of Highways are actively working to clear the roadway of debris.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and to seek alternate routes. No estimated time has been given for when US-119 will reopen, as the cleanup process and investigation are expected to take several hours.
Ongoing Investigation
The Logan County Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigation Unit is leading the probe into what caused the car to veer across the median and into the path of the oncoming truck. Investigators are currently:
- Collecting witness statements
- Reviewing any available surveillance or dashcam footage
- Inspecting the vehicles involved
- Considering possible factors such as driver fatigue, medical episodes, impairment, distraction, or mechanical failure
The name of the deceased victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Authorities have not yet determined whether foul play or negligence was involved, but they emphasize that all potential causes are being thoroughly examined.
Community Reacts
News of the fatal crash has sent shockwaves through Logan County, where US-119 is a heavily traveled corridor linking communities and serving as a vital route for commuters and commercial transport.
“We drive this road every day,” said one local resident. “It’s tragic and terrifying to hear that someone lost their life so suddenly. My prayers go out to the victim’s family.”
Residents have also expressed concern over the safety of the US-119 corridor, citing past accidents in the area and calling for renewed attention to road conditions and traffic enforcement.
Safety Reminder
Authorities are using this incident to remind the public about the importance of road safety, particularly on highways with high-speed traffic and commercial vehicle activity. Drivers are urged to:
- Remain alert and free of distractions
- Obey speed limits
- Avoid aggressive lane changes or driving while fatigued
- Always wear seatbelts
Final Thoughts
Thursday’s crash serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike on the road. As investigators work to determine the exact cause of the collision, the Logan County community mourns the loss of a life and extends well wishes to all those affected.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Logan County Sheriff’s Office.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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