Roanoke, Virginia, December 24, 2025
A devastating accident on I-81 in Roanoke County has resulted in three fatalities, including a young child. The two-vehicle collision involved a tractor-trailer and a Honda Odyssey, leading to reckless driving charges against the truck driver. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of road safety on busy highways.
Roanoke: Tragic I-81 Accident Claims Three Lives
Roanoke, Virginia – A devastating two-vehicle collision on Interstate 81 northbound in Roanoke County has resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a young child. The fatal incident occurred late Monday night, December 22, and is currently under investigation by Virginia State Police. The driver of the tractor-trailer involved has been charged with reckless driving, with additional charges pending.
Collision Details
The crash took place around 11:08 p.m. on Monday, December 22, near the 145-mile marker of I-81 northbound in Roanoke County. Authorities reported that a 2014 Volvo tractor-trailer was traveling north when it unexpectedly ran off the right side of the roadway. The tractor-trailer then struck a 2025 Honda Odyssey that was stopped on the right shoulder. Six individuals were inside the Honda Odyssey at the time of the collision.
Victims Identified
Three occupants of the Honda Odyssey tragically died from their injuries after being transported to Roanoke Memorial Hospital. The deceased have been identified as 65-year-old Lorraine Renee Williams, 49-year-old Ebony Latasha Williams, and 2-year-old Shazziyah Lesley. All three victims were residents of Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Virginia State Police confirmed that Lorraine Renee Williams and Ebony Latasha Williams were wearing their seatbelts, and Shazziyah Lesley was properly secured in a child safety seat.
Injured Occupants
In addition to the fatalities, three other passengers in the Honda Odyssey sustained injuries and were also transported to Roanoke Memorial Hospital for treatment. These individuals include a 63-year-old man, a 73-year-old man, and a 10-year-old girl. All three injured occupants were reported to be wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash.
Investigation and Charges
The driver of the 2014 Volvo tractor-trailer, 58-year-old El Hadji Karamoko Quattara, was not injured in the incident. Following the preliminary investigation, Quattara has been charged with reckless driving. State police have indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues. The Virginia State Police are actively working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the collision.
Road Safety on Interstate Highways
Interstate 81 is a major north-south highway that spans several states, including Virginia. Accidents involving stopped vehicles on shoulders highlight the critical importance of driver attentiveness and safe practices, especially when operating large commercial vehicles. Authorities consistently remind drivers to maintain focus, avoid distractions, and adhere to speed limits to ensure safety for all motorists, particularly on busy interstate corridors. State-level initiatives often focus on reducing accidents by promoting safe driving behaviors and enforcing traffic laws.
Community Impact
The tragic loss of life has sent shockwaves through the community, reminding everyone of the unforeseen dangers on the roadways. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, highlighting the coordinated efforts required in such critical situations. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution for all drivers sharing the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did the fatal accident on I-81 in Roanoke County occur?
The fatal accident occurred late Monday night, December 22, 2025, around 11:08 p.m.
Where did the accident take place?
The accident took place on Interstate 81 northbound, near the 145-mile marker in Roanoke County, Virginia.
How many lives were lost in the accident?
Three lives were lost in the accident.
Who were the victims identified in the crash?
The victims identified were 65-year-old Lorraine Renee Williams, 49-year-old Ebony Latasha Williams, and 2-year-old Shazziyah Lesley, all from Charlotte, North Carolina.
What vehicles were involved in the collision?
A 2014 Volvo tractor-trailer and a 2025 Honda Odyssey were involved in the collision.
What charges have been filed against the tractor-trailer driver?
The tractor-trailer driver, 58-year-old El Hadji Karamoko Quattara, has been charged with reckless driving, with additional charges pending.
Are there any injured individuals from the crash?
Yes, three additional occupants of the Honda Odyssey (a 63-year-old man, a 73-year-old man, and a 10-year-old girl) were transported to Roanoke Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries.
Key Features of the I-81 Roanoke County Accident
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Date and Time | Monday, December 22, 2025, around 11:08 p.m. | State-level |
| Location | I-81 northbound, near the 145-mile marker in Roanoke County, Virginia | State-level |
| Fatalities | 3 (Lorraine Renee Williams, Ebony Latasha Williams, Shazziyah Lesley) | State-level |
| Injuries | 3 (63-year-old man, 73-year-old man, 10-year-old girl) | State-level |
| Vehicles Involved | 2014 Volvo tractor-trailer and 2025 Honda Odyssey | State-level |
| Tractor-Trailer Driver | El Hadji Karamoko Quattara, 58 years old | State-level |
| Initial Charge | Reckless Driving (additional charges pending) | State-level |
| Investigating Authority | Virginia State Police | State-level |
| Victims’ Residence | Charlotte, North Carolina | State-level |
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