Newport, TN : Two killed, three injured in head-on collision on U.S. Highway 321 in Cocke County on Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Two people were killed and three others were injured in a head-on collision in Cocke County on Wednesday when a 71-year-old man passed out behind the wheel, causing his car to veer into oncoming traffic, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Ronnie H. Gibbs, of Cosby, was traveling south on U.S. Highway 321 in Newport about 12:35 p.m. when he lost consciousness, according to a THP incident report.

Gibbs' passenger, Elaine L. Kelly, 63, also of Cosby, was unable to revive him before the 1982 Cadillac Fleetwood crossed the center line and struck a 2004 Dodge sedan.

Gibbs and the driver of the Dodge, Kristin L. Merritt, 21, of Newport, both were killed in the crash.

Kelly, along with Merritt's two young daughters — 2-year-old Zabrayah D. Merritt and 1-year-old Braelen Merritt — were injured. The extent of their injuries was not immediately available.

Both children were in child restraint seats, although Zabrayah was not properly secured, according to the report.

Gibbs was not wearing a seat belt, although it would not have made a difference in the opinion of investigating THP Trooper Paul Kilday, the report states.

There were no immediate signs that Gibbs was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Blood tests have been requested.

Source :
THP: Two killed, three injured in Cocke County collision