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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – In a tragic incident early Saturday morning in downtown Johnson City, a motorist faces multiple charges after a collision with four pedestrians resulted in one fatality and three injuries.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) reported that 36-year-old Stephen Kotsonis was behind the wheel of a 2021 Ford Explorer when he lost control of the SUV. The vehicle veered off course, struck a curb, and crashed into the West Main Street parking area, hitting a light pole, lamp, and city signage around 1:29 a.m.
The pedestrians involved in this unfortunate event were identified as 22-year-old Ethan Saxon, 23-year-old Macy Street, 23-year-old Riley Gowan, and 24-year-old Toby Cornett.
Tragically, Cornett succumbed to the severe injuries he sustained during the accident.
Saxon, Street, and Gowan survived but sustained serious injuries. Saxon suffered a broken foot, Street endured a collapsed lung, road rash, and a fractured pelvis, while Gowan experienced rashes and a broken nose.
All three were released from the hospital Saturday morning.
The Washington County Detention Center confirmed to News Channel 11 on Sunday that Kotsonis is being held there without bail. It is also confirmed Kotsonis was charged with the following:
- Reckless Endangerment
- Reckless Driving
- Vehicular Assault
- Vehicular Homicide
- Leaving the Scene with Property Damage
- Driving Under the Influence
- Drivers to Exercise Due Care
Saxon and Street said the group had been celebrating the night before Saxon’s college graduation when they stopped at the food truck before the crash occurred.
Street said she did not see the SUV before impact. Saxon told News Channel 11 they briefly got a glimpse of the vehicle before the impact.
“We were just and then I didn’t see it happen, I know my friend Riley who also got hit by the car, she saw it for a split second but I think I must have been facing away from the car because I just went unconscious and woke up in the hospital,” Street told News Channel 11.
“I remember sort of walking, you know, going to go walk towards the food truck and that’s when I see something in the corner of my eye and it was so quick that I could barely even see it,” Saxon added.
Below is a statement that Gowan gave to News Channel 11:
“I’m still in disbelief this has happened. I’m still trying to process. I hope for the best outcome possible and for justice for everyone involved.” – Riley Gowan, Injured Pedestrian
Though a tragic incident, Street and Saxon are thankful for the prayers and well-wishes they have received. A GoFundMe has been established for Street, who is expected to be bedridden for an extended period of time.
“It’s just awful and really unfair to everybody’s families and friends,” Street said. “The man’s family and friends and just that whole thing, it’s just awful. So all four of us just keep us in your thoughts and prayers.”
To donate, click here.
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courtesy of Riley Gowan -
courtesy of Macy Street -
courtesy of Riley Gowan -
courtesy of Riley Gowan