Hampton, VA (January 31, 2025) – A tragic multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 64 left one woman dead and a man seriously injured Wednesday evening. The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the Mercury Boulevard exit.
According to Virginia State Police, 21-year-old Joniyah M. Temple was driving eastbound on a 2012 Buick Lacrosse when she suffered a tire blowout. In an attempt to regain control, she overcorrected, causing the vehicle to crash into a jersey wall and come to a stop in the left lane, facing oncoming traffic.
Ashley N. Shockley, of Virginia Beach, was driving a 2019 Ford Fusion and pulled over onto the shoulder to assist Temple. Moments later, a 2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 van, driven by 61-year-old Steven Thomas Wagenmann, Sr., was traveling in the left lane and collided head-on with Temple’s vehicle. The impact pushed the Buick into the parked Ford Fusion.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported Temple to Riverside Regional Medical Center, where she later died from her injuries. Wagenmann suffered serious injuries and was taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for treatment. Shockley was unharmed.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and no further details have been released.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim.
Fatal Accidents in Virginia
Tragic accidents like this highlight the dangers of highway travel, particularly when vehicles become disabled in active lanes of traffic. Virginia interstates, including I-64, experience a high volume of traffic, increasing the risk of severe collisions.
Tire blowouts, such as the one in this incident, can lead to sudden loss of vehicle control. Experts recommend regular tire maintenance, including checking air pressure and tread wear, to reduce the chances of such failures. Additionally, when a vehicle becomes disabled on a highway, it is crucial to move it out of active lanes whenever possible and to use hazard lights to warn oncoming traffic.
In fatal accidents, surviving family members may have legal options to seek compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and other damages. Those injured in crashes caused by another party’s actions may also be entitled to financial recovery.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident, seeking guidance and support can be critical in navigating the aftermath. Resources are available to help you understand your rights and options during this difficult time.