Jefferson County, TN, Paramedic Killed in Ambulance Crash

Sept. 2, 2024

Jefferson County Rescue Squad Assistant Chief Jeremy Sutton died after the ambulance and a tractor-trailer collided.

A Jefferson County paramedic was killed and another was injured Saturday night when their ambulance collided with a tractor-trailer.

Jefferson County Rescue Squad Assistant Chief Jeremy Sutton died of his injuries at the University of Tennessee Medical Center while Paramedic Sara Brooks suffered serious injuries.

The ambulance turned in front of the tractor-trailer as it tried to access I-40 east at a small crossover, according to WVLT.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol's investigation is continuing to determine if charges against the drivers are warranted.

People lined the streets to honor Sutton as he was escorted by EMS, fire and police vehicles from the trauma center to the medical examiner's office.

Family members were moved by the outpouring of support and the honor from residents and fellow responders as they mourn the father of three.

Sutton worked for Jefferson County EMS/EMA for 24 years. He was the assistant chief of the Jefferson County Rescue Squad where Brooks also volunteers.

He was a swift water rescue and a hazmat technician. He was taught health science at Fulton High School.

“Think about the family and what they have to go through at this time. It tough because we’re all in that situation at some time. It could have been us in a different role, different scenario but it’s tough it opens your eyes to things like this and when it happens it’s a tragedy,” Brian Karns, of J-Hooks Towing told WATE.

Funeral arrangements have not been set.

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.