Driver identified in fatal accident involving tractor trailer on SB I-71

VERONA, Ky. - The Kentucky State Police have identified the driver in a fatal accident involving a vehicle and tractor trailer.

Johnny Sherard, 54, of Anderson, South Carolina was killed when his tractor trailer struck the end of a bridge overpass. The tractor became separated and the truck portion landed on Tapering Point Road, below I-71, according to police.

Sherard, who was not wearing a seat belt, was partially ejected and pronounced dead at the scene by the Gallatin County Coroner.

Wet roadways are believed to be a factor in the crash.

The crash happened at about 8:30 a.m. just past the 72 mile marker when a vehicle and tractor trailer collided.

The cause of the crash is still being investigated.

Highway traffic was diverted onto US 42 for travel south of the accident and re-enter onto I-71 or KY-16 which routed traffic to I-75 at or near Glencoe, Ky. Late in the morning, one southbound lane was reopened.

The road was closed for several hours while crews cleared the road.

Stay with 9 News and WCPO.com for the latest on this crash.

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