Fatal crash in Jefferson County

DANDRIDGE — A 63-year-old motorcyclist died Tuesday morning after a vehicle turned into the path of the bike, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

Lee Chipley of Knoxville was killed in the 6:56 a.m. crash at the intersection of State Route 139 and Deep Springs Road, according to a report filed by THP Trooper Mark Self.

Chipley was westbound on SR 139 on a 2009 Harley Davidson when a 1998 Ford Explorer turned into his path, Self noted. Chipley, who was using a helmet, was flung by the impact from the bike onto the roadway.

Frances Driver, 39, of Dandridge was driving the Explorer. Self wrote that Driver’s Explorer was eastbound on SR 139 when Driver tried to make a left turn onto Deep Springs Road. Driver was using a seat belt, according to Self.

There was no indication of alcohol or drug abuse contributing to the crash, but Self ordered blood tests on both drivers.

Self’s report stated criminal charges are pending.