Fatal Car Accident in Franklin County: Semi-Crash Claims Lives of David B. Jernigan Jr. and Loren B. Smallwood on Interstate 40
A devastating accident occurred in Franklin County on Sunday morning, resulting in the loss of two lives. The Arkansas State Police reported a single-vehicle crash involving a semitrailer on Interstate 40 in the rural area of Franklin County. The driver, David B. Jernigan Jr., 30, of Mount Airy, North Carolina, was operating a 2024 Kenworth westbound on I-40 when the collision occurred at approximately 4:57 a.m.
According to the fatal accident report, the truck veered off the roadway, entered the median, and collided with the center pylons at the Pleasant View Road overpass. Tragically, both Jernigan and his passenger, Loren B. Smallwood, 36, of Tobaccoville, North Carolina, lost their lives in the crash.
The Arkansas State Police are currently investigating the accident. The report indicates that the weather conditions at the time of the accident were dry and cloudy. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, and no additional information has been released.
The community is mourning the loss of two lives in this tragic accident. David B. Jernigan Jr. and Loren B. Smallwood were both from North Carolina, and their families and loved ones are grieving their sudden passing.
The accident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of accidents. The Arkansas State Police are urging drivers to exercise caution and attention while driving, particularly in rural areas where visibility may be reduced.
As the investigation continues, the Arkansas State Police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. The community is coming together to support those affected by this tragic loss of life.
David B. Jernigan Jr. and Loren B. Smallwood’s families and loved ones are in the thoughts and prayers of the community as they navigate this difficult time. May the investigation bring closure and answers to those affected by this tragic accident.
The memory of David B. Jernigan Jr. and Loren B. Smallwood will live on through the efforts of law enforcement and the community’s commitment to seeking justice and promoting road safety.
