Woman injured in July 20 crash

 A two-vehicle crash left the driver of one vehicle injured, while the other driver was charged with following too closely.

According to a preliminary report from Tennessee Highway Patrol, at approximately 8:50 a.m., July 20, 2023, Brenda Villard, 79, was driving a 2009 Toyota Corolla, traveling westbound on US Highway 70 (Smithville Highway). Villard reportedly stopped, attempting to turn in the parking lot at Dollar General, at 5739 Smithville Highway.

Jimmy D. Harris, 60, was driving a 2016 Freightliner semi- tractor, traveling behind Villard’s vehicle. Harris was reportedly following too closely when Villard stopped to make the turn into Dollar General. According to the report, Harris attempted to make an evasive maneuver to the left to avoid the crash but was unsuccessful. Harris’ vehicle struck Villard’s vehicle in the rear, sending Villard’s vehicle into a field on the north side of the roadway.

Harris’ vehicle had damage to the front bumper. Villard’s vehicle had damage to the entire rear end.

Harris was charged with following too closely. He was not injured

Villard was transported to Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital, in Sparta.

No further details were available.