Driver from California dead following 18-wheeler crash on Interstate 81

A tractor-trailer driver is dead following a weekend crash on Interstate 81 in Wythe County.

Willis M. Peters, 43, of San Bernardino, California, died at the scene of the Saturday wreck that occurred just after 2:30.

According to preliminary findings from the Virginia State Police, Peters’ 18-wheeler was northbound when it struck an SUV. The rig then traveled through the median and into the southbound lanes, hitting guard rails both times then overturning on the roadway.

The driver of the SUV was not injured.

(IMAGE: SuperTalk Archives)