Mocs News Reporting the news that matters most to UTC
By Anna Skiles
SODDY-DAISY–On Saturday, September 21st at 8:50pm, a woman driving under the influence on TN-27 crashed into another vehicle, leading to both directions being shut down between Thrasher Pike and Harrison Lane for several hours.
Authorities diverted traffic via Thrasher Pike, Dayton Pike, and Harrison Lane for several hours following the crash, leaving locals wondering what could have caused such a shut down.
Soddy Daisy Police Chief Capt. Jeff Gann says both cars were heading south on 27 when one car rear-ended the other, sending it onto the shoulder of the road. The first car crossed into the northbound lanes before stopping in the ditch. The victims stated that they were spinning “for what felt like forever.”
The victims of the crash were a Soddy-Daisy couple, Makayla Biddwell—who told police she was 17 weeks pregnant—and her boyfriend Marvin Burum. Biddwell complained of abdominal pain, and both were taken to the hospital by EMS. They both suffered several lacerations to the head due to broken glass.
Burum told News Channel 9 that doctors say their baby will be fine, but the couple stated that they felt that the crash has left lasting effects on them, both mentally and physically.
“She’s [Biddwell] complaining about headaches and her back hurting. I’ve already had back issues, and this has made it 10 times worse. We’re constantly nervous when we’re in the car now,” said Burum. Burum also complains of dizziness while working and worsening of pre-existing back pain.
Police arrested 25-year-old Megan Wilson for speeding and driving under the influence following the crash. Wilson consented to a breathalyzer test and blood test, following which police stated that Wilson had a BAC of 0.174 percent, more than double the legal limit of 0.08 percent. Drug paraphernalia used to vape THC—the illegal compound found in marijuana—were also found in her car.
“Alcohol and speed were the two main factors tonight,” said Capt. Jeff Gann in a press conference.
Wilson has been charged with two charges of vehicular assault, DUI 1st offense, and possession of unlawful drug paraphernalia.
