Tennessee deputy fatally struck by semi while trying to remove ladder from roadway

A sheriff’s deputy lost his life on Thursday while attempting to clear debris out of the roadway.

The fatal incident occurred at 8 a.m. on I-75 at mile marker 74 in Loudon County, Tennessee.

Loudon County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Sgt. Chris Jenkins responded to reports of debris in the northbound lanes of the interstate near the Tennessee River bridge.

As Jenkins was removing a ladder from the roadway, he was struck by a semi truck and died from his injuries a short time later.

No other injuries were reported.

The truck also struck Jenkins’ police cruiser and two other vehicles.

According to Fox 17, it isn’t clear whether charges will be filed. The semi truck driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with police.

Investigators are reportedly trying to locate a white utility vehicle that may have dropped the ladder in the road.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol will be conducting the investigation.

“We are devastated. Sgt. Jenkins began his career at Loudon County Sheriff’s Office in 2002 as a corrections deputy. He was promoted to patrol in 2003 and graduated from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy at Donelson in 2004. Sgt. Jenkins became a K-9 in 2007, and was promoted to patrol corporal in 2018. Last year, Sgt. Jenkins was selected for promotion to patrol sergeant. Sgt. Jenkins leaves behind a son who is a Loudon County patrol deputy. We are a family, and we are heartbroken,” the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office said.