A tractor-trailer drove off the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel on Sunday, killing the driver.
Ronnie Andrews, 61, of Robersonville, North Carolina, was identified as the driver. His body was recovered with the truck later Sunday.
At about 6:30 a.m., the tractor-trailer went overboard, just south of Fisherman’s Island after a single-vehicle crash near the North Channel Bridge.
The tractor-trailer was a Perdue Farms vehicle.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” a Perdue spokesperson said. “He had been a valued member of our team, and his loss will be deeply felt across our organization.”
The spokesperson said the company is fully cooperating with authorities as the investigation continues.
At 9:21 a.m., there was a wind advisory for the bridge-tunnel, meaning there were wind speeds of 35 mph. The speed limit was reduced to 45 mph on the bridge-tunnel with no passing allowed. In a statement sent Sunday evening, a spokesperson for the bridge-tunnel said weather was not a factor in the crash.
The crash caused guardrail and curb damage to the bridge-tunnel, and maintenance crews made emergency repairs. Traffic was stopped on the bridge while repairs were made. As of Sunday evening, a single lane of southbound traffic was open as crews completed repairs. A spokesperson advised that repairs could take several days.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the CBBT are with the family, loved ones and fellow employees of Mr. Andrews during this difficult time,” said Jeff Holland, Executive Director of the CBBT in a statement.
There is a very small margin of error for tractor-trailers on the bridge-tunnel, which is the only direct link between Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore and is used by travelers along the East Coast. The guardrails on the bridge are designed to withstand glancing blows from cars or pickup trucks going 62 mph or less.
The posted speed limit is 55 mph. These guardrails are not as strong as the concrete jersey barriers at the Hampton Roads and the Monitor-Merrimac bridge-tunnels.