Cumberland City, Tenn.–The Stewart County Fire & Rescue thanks everyone involved with recovering the body of the driver who drove off the end of the Cumberland City Ferry Friday and into the Cumberland River. The ferry was docked at the time.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the accident which claimed the life of the driver but the accident report has not yet been released. Preliminary reports indicated that the vehicle drove onto the ferry and apparently drove right through the gate on the other end. It then dove into the water, sinking into the Cumberland River.
The Fire & Rescue officials posted a message on their Facebook page about the incident. “Yesterday was a tough call for first responders, someone’s family, and our community. Stewart County Fire Rescue is proud to be able to provide a variety of specialized services. SCFR divers were able to locate the vehicle within one hour after being dispatched. Under the tragic circumstances five total dives were made. This resulted in a successful retrieval of the vehicle and brought closure to the family. Please keep the family and community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”