News Summary
A tragic head-on collision on Interstate 464 in Chesapeake resulted in two fatalities and one critical injury. The crash involved a wrong-way Lexus sedan and an ambulance, sparking an investigation by Virginia State Police. The fiery impact led to the death of a passenger and left the ambulance driver in critical condition. Emergency teams responded promptly, but the incident has prompted calls for improved traffic safety in the community as the investigation continues into possible contributing factors.
Chesapeake, Virginia – Two Dead, One Critically Injured in Head-On Wrong-Way Crash on Interstate 464
A tragic head-on collision on Interstate 464 in Chesapeake early Sunday morning resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left another critically injured. The crash occurred around 2:33 a.m. near Exit 2 at Military Highway, involving a 2024 Ford Econoline ambulance and a 2022 Lexus sedan.
The incident was sparked when the Lexus, driven by 39-year-old Shakena Shamae Taylor-Pannell from Virginia Beach, entered the southbound lanes of the highway traveling in the wrong direction. Taylor-Pannell’s vehicle collided head-on with the southbound ambulance owned by Midwest Medical of North Carolina.
Both vehicles caught fire as a result of the intense impact. The driver of the ambulance, 22-year-old Skye A. Oraczewski from Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and a passenger in the ambulance, identified as 53-year-old Stephen Michael Anderson of Trenton, North Carolina, were immediately rushed to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Unfortunately, Anderson succumbed to his injuries later at the hospital, while Oraczewski remains in critical condition.
Emergency response teams worked quickly at the scene, but Taylor-Pannell was pronounced dead upon arrival of first responders. Virginia State Police are currently investigating the crash and are looking into alcohol and speed as potential contributing factors.
The southbound lanes of I-464 were closed for several hours following the accident, leading to significant traffic delays in the area. The families of both Taylor-Pannell and Anderson have been informed of their respective losses. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, as authorities endeavor to piece together the events leading up to this devastating incident.
Details of the Incident
According to the Virginia State Police, the crash took place at a time when traffic on the highway was minimal. Initial reports indicate that the Lexus entered the wrong-way lanes and collided with the ambulance, which was on an emergency call. The force of the collision was severe enough to ignite both vehicles, contributing to the traumatic aftermath of the accident.
Emergency Response
First responders arrived promptly at the scene to provide medical attention. Stephen Anderson and Skye Oraczewski were transported to the hospital, where medical personnel attempted to treat their injuries. Unfortunately, Anderson’s condition deteriorated, leading to his untimely death. Oraczewski remains in critical condition, requiring close monitoring and ongoing care.
Investigative Actions
Virginia State Police have launched a full investigation into the crash, considering all possible factors that may have led to the tragic outcome. They are examining whether Taylor-Pannell’s impairment due to alcohol or excessive speed played any role in the incident. Investigators will continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze the wreckage to determine the factors that contributed to this horrific collision.
Community Impact
This incident has not only impacted the families of those involved but has also resonated throughout the Chesapeake community. Traffic safety advocates are urging drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
The ongoing investigation will provide more clarity on the circumstances surrounding this crash as Virginia State Police continue to assess why one vehicle was traveling in the wrong direction and how the accident unfolded. The community awaits further updates on this somber event, mourning the loss of life while hoping for the swift recovery of Oraczewski.
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Additional Resources
- Pilot Online: Chesapeake Head-On Crash
- WAVY: Head-On Collision in Chesapeake
- 13 News Now: Fatal Crash on Interstate 464
- WTKR: Fatal Crash Involving Ambulance
- Wikipedia: Traffic Collision
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