Illegal Immigrant Charged with Vehicular Homicide After Deadly Wrong-Way Crash on Tennessee Interstate
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A tragic wrong-way crash on Interstate 640 in Knoxville has resulted in vehicular homicide charges against Eric Ramon Alcantara-Guevara, a 27-year-old illegal immigrant who allegedly fled the scene after causing the fatal accident. Authorities say the incident occurred Sunday night near the Broadway exit when Alcantara-Guevara drove a passenger vehicle in the wrong direction, colliding head-on with a motorcycle traveling westbound.
The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, though officials have withheld the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin. According to the Knoxville Police Department, officers responded to reports of the crash around 7:15 p.m. on January 18. Upon arrival, they found the motorcycle and passenger vehicle had collided, but the occupants of the car had fled.
Investigators later located Alcantara-Guevara and took him into custody. Jail records indicate he is now being held for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following his arrest. He faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide, driving under the influence (DUI), and leaving the scene of an accident knowing a death had occurred.
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding illegal immigration and public safety on Tennessee roadways. The Department of Homeland Security has intensified efforts nationwide to detain and deport individuals who violate immigration laws, particularly those involved in criminal activities. This incident underscores the intersection of immigration enforcement and local law enforcement operations.
According to the Department of Homeland Security’s immigration enforcement guidelines, ICE collaborates closely with local authorities to apprehend individuals who pose a threat to public safety. Alcantara-Guevara’s detention under ICE custody follows this protocol.
Knoxville officials have not released further details about the investigation or the victim’s identity, but the community has expressed grief and concern over the fatal crash. The investigation remains active as authorities work to piece together the circumstances leading to the collision.
Wrong-way crashes remain a significant hazard on U.S. highways. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that such incidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the high-impact nature of head-on collisions. This tragic event on I-640 serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by impaired and reckless driving.
Alcantara-Guevara’s case will proceed through the Tennessee judicial system, where he will face prosecution for the charges filed against him. Meanwhile, ICE’s involvement signals potential immigration consequences beyond criminal penalties. The agency’s website offers resources on immigration enforcement and detainee rights for those seeking more information.
As the community mourns the loss of the motorcyclist, law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the importance of roadway safety and the enforcement of laws designed to protect all motorists. Further updates are expected as the investigation develops.
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