Wythe County, VA – Fatal Crash on I-81 Near MM 73 Claims Two Lives and Leaves Two Others Seriously Injured
Wythe County, VA (June 13, 2023) – A tragic crash in Wythe County last week resulted in the loss of two lives and serious injuries to two other individuals.
According to Virginia State Police, the accident occurred on June 8th at around 8:10 p.m. on Interstate 81 near the 73-mile marker.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 2018 Ford Fiesta, traveling south on I-81, veered off the right side of the interstate. In an attempt to correct its course, the Fiesta overcompensated and crossed over to the left side of I-81, eventually crossing through the median and entering the northbound lanes.
The Fiesta collided with a tractor-trailer and a 2007 Honda GL 1899 motorcycle that were both traveling in the northbound lanes.
Tragically, the driver of the Fiesta, identified as 38-year-old Brittney L. Connatser from Rural Retreat, VA, lost her life at the scene. She was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. A 44-year-old male passenger suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The operator of the motorcycle, 56-year-old Ivan I. Kononchuk from Tucker, GA, also sustained serious injuries. He was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for medical care.
Sadly, the motorcycle’s passenger, 48-year-old Oksana P. Shore, also from Tucker, GA, succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, a 51-year-old man from Texas, emerged from the incident unharmed. He had been wearing a seat belt throughout the crash.
The Virginia State Police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time. We hope for a swift recovery for those who were injured.