A devastating car accident on Interstate 64 in York County, Virginia, claimed the life of Tammy Parsons, a 53-year-old grandmother, as she was traveling with her family to a theme park. The incident occurred when a tire detached from a Jeep traveling in the opposite direction and crashed through the windshield of the SUV they were in. Despite the efforts of Parsons’ loved ones to protect themselves, she tragically lost her life in the collision.
According to WAVY-TV, Parsons, who resided in Williamsburg, was with her fiancé, two children, and two grandchildren in a Ford Explorer at the time of the accident. The impact occurred on the driver’s side, resulting in Parsons’ immediate death. Fortunately, no other individuals were injured in the crash.
Joseph Palumbo, Parsons’ fiancé, described her as a devoted mother and partner. He expressed his deep grief, stating, “She was 100% committed to her kids, all the way, there was nothing, nothing she wouldn’t do… She is by far the best, best woman I’ve ever met in my life… I lost a soulmate.” Palumbo had been in a relationship with Parsons for over a decade.
While investigations into the accident are ongoing, authorities have indicated that neither alcohol nor speeding played a role in the incident. Charges may be filed in connection with the tire detachment.
Palumbo praised the quick thinking and bravery of Parsons’ daughter, Skyler, who managed to protect the rest of the family from harm. He recounted how she immediately reacted when the tire struck, saying, “When that tire hit, her second-oldest daughter jumped up over her mom to help me slam that car into the guardrail, so we would stop and not crash and possibly get killed. That takes pure strength in my eyes. And you know what? That comes from their mom.”
The family was en route to Busch Gardens’ Howl-O-Scream event in Williamsburg when the accident occurred. Palumbo shared that he was surprised to receive a Halloween decoration that Parsons had ordered before her untimely death. He expressed his emotions, saying, “I didn’t know it was coming… I’m not going to lie. It brought a little tear.” He also acknowledged Parsons’ sacrifice, stating, “[She] gave her life to save everybody that was in that car. We all walked away that day because of her.”
The Virginia State Police are currently investigating the incident.
