Washington Co., VA – Road Worker Struck and Killed by Dump Truck on I-81

Washington County, VA (April 15, 2025) – A tragic accident claimed the life of a highway maintenance worker on the afternoon of April 15 when he was struck by a dump truck on Interstate 81. Virginia State Police confirmed that the incident occurred at around 2:30 p.m. in the northbound lanes near the 30-mile marker in Washington County.

The victim, 43-year-old James Nunley Jr. of Marion, was part of a crew performing routine shoulder maintenance work along the highway. According to preliminary findings, the dump truck was reversing on the right shoulder when it struck Nunley. The driver, who has not been publicly identified, was not injured in the incident and remained at the scene to cooperate with authorities. Emergency crews responded quickly, but sadly, Nunley was pronounced dead on-site due to the severity of his injuries. Virginia State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and coworkers of James Nunley Jr. as they cope with this heartbreaking loss.