Bristol, Tennessee, October 6, 2025
News Summary
On Thursday evening, two fatal traffic crashes occurred in Bristol, Tennessee, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The first crash involved an SUV and a motorcycle, claiming the life of 46-year-old Joshua Smokey Collier. The second incident occurred three hours later, when a vehicle struck a pedestrian, identified as 40-year-old Daniel Lee Frazier. Both incidents are under investigation, and authorities are urging witnesses to come forward with any information that may assist in the inquiries.
Bristol
Two fatal traffic crashes occurred in Bristol, Tennessee on Thursday evening, prompting investigations by the Bristol Tennessee Police Department. The first incident, involving an SUV and a motorcycle, took place just after 5 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 394 and Whitetop Road, close to the Bristol Motor Speedway. Tragically, one individual from this crash was transported to Bristol Regional Medical Center, where they later died from their injuries. The deceased has been identified as Joshua Smokey Collier, 46, from Bluff City, Tennessee.
The second fatal incident occurred approximately three hours later, around 8:50 p.m., at the intersection of State Route 126 and Meadow Street. In this case, a vehicle struck a pedestrian, who also sustained serious injuries and was subsequently taken to Bristol Regional Medical Center. The pedestrian involved has been identified as Daniel Lee Frazier, 40, of Bristol, Tennessee. Unfortunately, he also succumbed to his injuries at the medical facility.
Both traffic incidents are currently under investigation, and no charges have been filed in connection with either crash as inquiries continue. The Bristol Tennessee Police Department is seeking any witnesses to these traffic crashes to provide information that may aid the ongoing investigations. Witnesses are encouraged to contact BTPD Officer James Owens at 423-989-5600 or via email at [email protected].
Details of the Crashes
The first fatal crash involving Joshua Smokey Collier occurred at a busy intersection, raising safety concerns in the area, particularly given the proximity to major events at the Bristol Motor Speedway. Authorities are looking into all potential contributing factors surrounding the accident.
Similarly, Daniel Lee Frazier’s tragic accident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian has heightened awareness of pedestrian safety in Bristol. The circumstances of both incidents remain under scrutiny as investigators gather evidence and witness statements to piece together the events leading to these fatalities.
Community Impact and Awareness
Such tragic incidents have significant impacts on families, friends, and the wider Bristol community. Traffic safety remains a critical topic of discussion, particularly regarding how to prevent similar occurrences in the future. With the holiday season approaching, local authorities are urging drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant and exercise caution on the roads.
Background Context
Bristol has seen its share of traffic incidents in recent years, prompting ongoing discussions about road safety measures and driver awareness. The Tennessee Department of Transportation regularly evaluates traffic patterns and safety initiatives to mitigate risks and support community safety campaigns. The Bristol Tennessee Police Department will continue to focus on traffic enforcement and public safety initiatives in hopes of reducing accidents.
FAQ Section
What happened in Bristol, Tennessee on Thursday evening?
Two separate traffic crashes occurred in Bristol, Tennessee on Thursday evening.
What was involved in the first crash?
The first crash happened just after 5 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 394 and Whitetop Road, near Bristol Motor Speedway, involving an SUV and a motorcycle.
Who died in the first crash?
One individual from the first crash was transported to Bristol Regional Medical Center, where they later died from their injuries. The deceased from the first crash was identified as Joshua Smokey Collier, 46, of Bluff City, Tennessee.
What occurred in the second crash?
The second crash occurred at approximately 8:50 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 126 and Meadow Street, involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.
Who was the pedestrian who died in the second crash?
The pedestrian from the second crash was identified as Daniel Lee Frazier, 40, of Bristol, Tennessee. He was also taken to Bristol Regional Medical Center and later died from his injuries.
Are there any charges filed in connection with the crashes?
No charges have been filed in connection with either crash as investigations are ongoing.
How can witnesses report information about the crashes?
Police are requesting that anyone who witnessed either crash contact BTPD Officer James Owens at 423-989-5600 or by email at [email protected].
Key Features of Bristol Traffic Crashes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of First Crash | State Route 394 and Whitetop Road |
| Time of First Crash | Just after 5 p.m. |
| Individuals Involved in First Crash | Joshua Smokey Collier (deceased), motorcycle, SUV |
| Location of Second Crash | State Route 126 and Meadow Street |
| Time of Second Crash | Approximately 8:50 p.m. |
| Individuals Involved in Second Crash | Daniel Lee Frazier (deceased), vehicle, pedestrian |
| Ongoing Investigations | Yes, by the Bristol Tennessee Police Department |
| Witness Contact Information | BTPD Officer James Owens: 423-989-5600, [email protected] |
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Additional Resources
- WCYB: Bristol Tennessee Authorities Investigating 2 Separate Fatal Crashes
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Tennessee
- WJHL: BTPD: 2 dead after separate crashes
- Google Search: Traffic Safety Tennessee
- Herald Courier: Crime Courts
- Google Scholar: Traffic Incidents Bristol
- WCYB: Serious Crash Backs Up Interstate 81
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Safety
- WJHL: Crash Closes Lanes on I-81 North in Bristol
- Google News: Bristol Tennessee Crashes
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
