We’ve lost another one.
Joseph R. Barlow, 55, of Mountain City, TN died this afternoon, September 18, 2009 at the Johnson City Medical Center. He succumbed to injuries sustained as he was driving a Johnson County Rescue Squad ambulance to the hospital with a patient being treated for pneumonia.
The crash occurred on Highway 67 at mile marker 2 about a mile north of Butler in Johnson County at approximately 10:15 last night. A 2001 Chevrolet Lumina being driven by 51 year old Brenda J. Buchanan of Elizabethton reportedly crossed the center lane and hit the 2001 Ford ambulance forcing it off the road. As it came back onto the road, the ambulance’s rear tire caught the 
edge, causing the rig to flip over an embankment ejecting Barlow from the vehicle. He was airlifted by Wings Air Rescue to the Johnson City Medical Center where he arrived in critical condition. His partner, 32 year old Kevin Colson of Laurel Bloomery, was also airlifted by Wings to JCMC with non-life-threatening injuries.
The patient being transported, 57-year old Alicia McCoy was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car that hit the ambulance, 51 year old Brenda J. Buchanan, of Elizabethton, was also airlifted by Wings to JCMC and released earlier today.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, reportedly saying they are treating the MVA as a criminal investigation due to the fact that drugs may have been a factor. It is unclear at this time what charges, if any, will be placed against Barbara Buchanan.
Our thoughts and prayers rain out to the family, friends, and brothers and sisters of the Johnson County Rescue Squad. You are not alone in your sadness and grief.
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