MORGAN COUNTY, Tenn. — Authorities have identified the victims of a devastating crash that occurred Wednesday morning on Knoxville Highway (Highway 62) in Morgan County, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries. The crash involved an SUV and a transportation bus from the Life Care Center of Morgan County, a local assisted living facility.
The collision happened between Oliver Springs and Coalfield, near Middle Creek Church, when an SUV traveling westbound veered into the eastbound lane and struck the bus head-on. The impact forced the bus off the road, sending it down a steep embankment before it came to rest.
According to a preliminary crash report released by the Tennessee Highway Patrol, 37-year-old Danielle Melton, the driver of the SUV, crossed the center line and crashed into the bus. Melton, along with 53-year-old Pamela Bane, a staff member aboard the bus, died at the scene.
Two others were injured in the crash:
70-year-old Sandra Mitchell, a resident and passenger on the bus
67-year-old Kelly Hall, the driver of the bus
Both Mitchell and Hall were transported to Methodist Medical Center in Oak Ridge with non-life-threatening injuries.
‘We Are Devastated by This Loss’
In a heartfelt statement, Jennifer Solomon, vice president of Life Care Centers of America’s Eastern Division, expressed grief and gratitude:
“We are a family, and we are devastated by this loss. Please remember Life Care Center of Morgan County’s residents and associates, as well as their families, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. First responders arrived at the scene quickly, and we are appreciative of the professionalism and courage they showed as they evaluated and treated everyone involved.”
The bus was transporting two residents and two staff members to medical appointments when the crash occurred.
Reckless Driving a Growing Concern
Morgan County officials say the crash appears to be the result of reckless driving — a rising concern along Highway 62. EMA Director Ethan Webb confirmed the call originally came in as a reckless driver, shortly before the fatal crash unfolded.
“Today’s accident came in as a reckless driver, and then ultimately involved a crash. It’s always a strain when you have such a complex scene. We had Anderson County resources, Roane County resources, and Knox County resources all assisting,” Webb said.
Ninth District Attorney General Russell Johnson also addressed the increase in deadly crashes across the region:
“We’ve had so many fatal crashes. Two people were killed on I-40 just a couple of days ago as well. Speed, reckless driving, and heavy traffic — people need to be even more aware of what they’re doing on the roads.”
Community Mourning and Investigation Underway
The community of Morgan County is now mourning the loss of two lives and rallying around those affected. Local officials and Life Care Center staff have called for prayers and support during what they describe as a “devastating time.”
The Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash. So far, no additional details about why Melton veered into oncoming traffic have been released.
As more information becomes available, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office and THP will continue updating the public.
In Memory:
Danielle Melton, 37 – Driver of the SUV
Pamela Bane, 53 – Life Care Center staff member
