Cynthia A. Paulie and 6-Year-Old Lucy Belle Obituary: Two Killed in Tragic Head-On Crash on State Route 8 in Sequatchie County – Cynthia A. Paulie and 6-Year-Old Lucy Belle Obituary: Head-On Crash on State Route 8 in Sequatchie County, Cynthia A. Paulie and 6-Year-Old Lucy Belle Among Two Killed
Cynthia A. Paulie and 6-Year-Old Lucy Belle Obituary, SEQUATCHIE COUNTY, TENNESSEE — A devastating head-on collision involving an SUV and a tractor-trailer on State Route 8 near Cagle Mountain has left two people dead, including a 6-year-old child, and several others injured, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).
The crash occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m. on June 19, when a 2001 Ford Expedition traveling northbound reportedly crossed the center line and entered the southbound lane. The SUV collided head-on with a 2017 Mack Coca-Cola tractor-trailer along the busy highway, causing severe damage and prompting an extended road closure in the area.
Preliminary findings from THP indicate that the Ford Expedition veered into oncoming traffic for reasons that remain under investigation. The tractor-trailer, driven by Andrew G. Tomkins, 56, of Tennessee, was unable to avoid the impact. After the collision, the commercial vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole, damaging electrical infrastructure near the Cagle Mountain Trading Post and causing a local power outage.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the SUV, identified as Cynthia A. Paulie, 69, of Indiana, sustained fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 6-year-old child, identified in reports as Lucy Belle, also suffered fatal injuries and died as a result of the collision.
The Ford Expedition was carrying a total of five occupants from Indiana. Among the injured was Meredith Allen, 42, who was transported to a medical facility for treatment. Two additional children, ages 6 and 9, were also injured and received emergency care following the crash. The truck driver, Andrew G. Tomkins, was likewise injured and treated by responders.
The collision triggered a large emergency response involving law enforcement, fire crews, emergency medical services, and utility workers. State Route 8, also known as Highway 111 in the Cagle Mountain area, was shut down for an extended period while officials documented the scene, cleared wreckage, and worked to restore damaged power infrastructure.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Preliminary reports suggest the SUV crossed into the opposite lane, but officials say all contributing factors are still being reviewed. Authorities have confirmed that no charges have been filed at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
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