UPDATE: Highway 11 Accident

UPDATE: Highway 11 Accident

PHOTO: Yesterday afternoon, an SUV collided with a tractor on Highway 11 in Fort Payne. (Tyler Pruett | Southern Torch)

By Tyler Pruett, Managing Editor

tyler@southerntorch.com

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — Yesterday, a tractor and SUV collided on Highway 11 in the Fort Payne City limits. The driver of the SUV was taken by means of LifeFlight to Erlanger in Chattanooga. The driver of the tractor was taken by ambulance to DeKalb Regional Medical Center with injuries.

We're sad to report that the driver of the SUV, Jim Chidester, passed away shortly after being airlifted. At the time of the wreck, Chidester was experiencing medical problems, and was on his way to see a doctor. According to the family, he was diabetic and this likely was the cause of the accident. Chidester was reportedly a responsible driver and very much loved by his family.

Services for the victim will be held this Sunday. Visitation will be at 12 pm at Burt Funeral Home in Valley Head; with the funeral service being held at 3 pm at Bankhead Cemetery in Mentone.

The driver of the tractor was treated and released after the accident. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.