Alcoa, Tennessee — The local community is mourning the tragic death of 44-year-old Russell Swanson Jr., a Maryville resident who lost his life in a fatal motorcycle accident on Alcoa Highway near Hillside Drive. The incident occurred on Monday, August 12, 2024, at approximately 7:21 a.m., when emergency responders from the City of Alcoa Police and Fire Departments, along with AMR Ambulance Service, arrived at the scene.
Upon arrival, Swanson was found unresponsive, lying next to his motorcycle. He was immediately transported to the University of Tennessee Hospital by AMR Ambulance Service, where he was pronounced deceased.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Swanson was riding his motorcycle northbound on Alcoa Highway in the left lane when a vehicle attempted to merge into the center median at Hillside Drive. The motorcycle collided with the back left side of the merging vehicle, resulting in the severe injuries that led to Swanson’s death. The driver of the other vehicle was unharmed and has been cited for failure to yield.
The Alcoa Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. They have urged anyone with information or video footage of the incident to contact them.
The news of Russell Swanson Jr.’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief on social media. Kimberley Sage Fletcher expressed her sorrow, posting, "I saw this man lying on the road… ugh tragic. May he rest in peace. Sending my love to his family and friends." Another commenter, Darryl Cannon, noted the confusion surrounding the term "failure to yield," adding that it may not fully convey the situation.
As the investigation progresses, the community remains in shock, grappling with the loss of a beloved member. The Alcoa Police Department has extended their deepest condolences to Swanson’s family and friends during this difficult time. Further details about the funeral arrangements will be communicated by his family.