Jimmy Wilburn Obituary, Death – Fatal Accident Claims Life of Venancio Motta Santos in West Virginia
A tragic accident occurred on Thursday, October 17, in Yawkey, Lincoln County, West Virginia, resulting in the loss of life of Venancio Motta Santos, a 44-year-old Kentucky man. Motta Santos was working as a flagger for a tree service company along West Virginia State Route 214 when the accident happened.
According to authorities, the driver involved, 47-year-old Jimmy Wilburn of Sumerco, West Virginia, was operating a black Chevrolet Silverado and failed to stop in time, striking Motta Santos, who was positioned on the side of the road near the work zone. The collision proved fatal, and Motta Santos succumbed to his injuries at CAMC General Hospital.
The accident highlights the dangers faced by roadside workers, who are often exposed to hazardous conditions as they perform their jobs near moving traffic. Flaggers like Motta Santos play a critical role in ensuring that traffic flows safely through construction and maintenance zones. However, they also rely on drivers’ attentiveness and adherence to traffic laws to avoid such devastating accidents.
The investigation into the exact circumstances of the incident is ongoing, and authorities will examine all factors, including whether speed, distraction, or other forms of negligence played a role in the collision. This investigation will likely determine whether any charges will be brought against Wilburn in relation to the accident.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of driver awareness in work zones and the need for increased safety measures to protect workers. Motorists are reminded to always slow down and proceed with caution when approaching and passing through construction zones, where workers like Motta Santos are often exposed to significant risks as they perform their duties.
The loss of Venancio Motta Santos is a painful reminder of the human cost of such accidents, affecting families, coworkers, and communities. His passing also serves as a call for renewed efforts to ensure that work zones are as safe as possible for those who must operate in such dangerous settings.
At this time, local authorities have not released further information regarding the investigation or whether charges may be filed against Wilburn. The accident continues to be under investigation by state police, who will look into all contributing factors.
In the wake of this tragedy, safety advocates are likely to renew calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws in work zones and greater public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the number of accidents involving roadside workers. Meanwhile, Motta Santos’ family, friends, and colleagues are left grappling with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of a man who was simply doing his job.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder to all drivers about the importance of caution, attention, and respect for work zone safety, as even a momentary lapse in judgment can lead to catastrophic consequences.
