Amelia County, VA (January 22, 2025) – A tragic two-vehicle collision occurred early Tuesday morning on Patrick Henry Highway in Amelia County, resulting in the death of a Blackstone woman. Virginia State Police responded to the crash at approximately 6:10 a.m. in the eastbound lanes of the 11000 block of the highway.
According to initial reports, a 2018 Honda CR-V, driven by 78-year-old Paul J. Semtner of Blackstone, was traveling east when a tractor-trailer entered his lane and collided with the Honda. Marilyn A. Semtner, 77, who was seated in the front passenger seat, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Both occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision.
Paul Semtner sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 27-year-old male from Chesterfield, was uninjured. Virginia State Police have stated that charges against the tractor-trailer driver are pending, and the crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts are with the Semtner family during this time of loss and recovery.
Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Virginia
Collisions involving tractor-trailers, like the recent incident in Amelia County, often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Intersections and highways, such as Patrick Henry Highway, are common sites for such accidents, particularly when visibility or driver error plays a role.
Virginia sees numerous accidents involving large trucks each year. Common contributing factors include failure to yield, driver inexperience, or mechanical issues. These crashes leave victims and their families facing immense challenges, from medical expenses to navigating legal proceedings.
In this case, the Semtner family must contend with the loss of a loved one and the recovery of another. Understanding legal rights and accessing resources will be crucial as they navigate this difficult time.
At Local Accident Reports, we are dedicated to helping families affected by tragic accidents by providing accurate information and connections to essential resources. If you or a loved one has been impacted by a tractor-trailer collision, reach out to us for compassionate support and guidance. Let us help you take the next steps toward healing and justice.