Virginia Bridge-Tunnel Accident Claims Life of Perdue Farms Truck Driver

 The Chesapeake Bay community is mourning the tragic loss of Ronnie Andrews, a 61-year-old truck driver for Perdue Farms, who died Sunday after his tractor-trailer crashed through guardrails on the southbound Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and plunged into the icy waters below.

Andrews, a resident of Robersonville, North Carolina, was the sole occupant of the vehicle when the single-vehicle crash occurred around 6:40 a.m. near the North Channel Bridge on the southbound span, just south of Fisherman’s Island. No other vehicles were involved. Emergency recovery teams from Crofton Diving in Portsmouth, Virginia, retrieved both Andrews and the truck Sunday evening. The crash caused damage to the bridge’s guardrails and curbing; emergency repairs were made, though one southbound lane remained closed temporarily.

Perdue Farms released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident: “We are heartbroken to confirm that a Perdue driver has passed away … Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and loved ones.” The company described Andrews as a valued team member and confirmed full cooperation with authorities investigating the crash.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Executive Director Jeff Holland extended condolences to Andrews’ family, loved ones, and colleagues, highlighting the tragedy’s impact on the community. Officials noted that weather conditions were not a factor in the crash, reporting low winds, no rain, and fair visibility at the time.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation as authorities continue to review circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. Andrews is remembered as a dedicated worker whose life and service touched both his colleagues and the wider transportation community.

Thoughts remain with his family, friends, and all who knew him as they cope with the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Ronnie Andrews.