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sports8h ago
Wes Rucker, longtime Knoxville sports journalist, dies at 43
Wvlt.tv and 1 more
- Wes Rucker, 43, died in a multi-vehicle crash on I-40 West near Cedar Bluff, with authorities confirming he was the sole fatality in the incident.
- Rucker built a 20+ year career covering Tennessee athletics, spanning roles at WBIR-TV, The Daily Beacon, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, and 247Sports.
- Tennessee coach Rick Barnes opened Friday’s press availability by honoring Rucker and asking for prayers for his family.
- A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Rucker’s family, noting he did not have life insurance.
- The crash followed a chain reaction after a vehicle stopped for traffic was rear-ended, triggering a larger wreck.
- Rucker recently joined WBIR-TV as a sports writer and on-air host before his passing.
- Rucker’s journalism career also included stints at the Daily Beacon and the Chattanooga Times Free Press.
- KPD released timing details, stating the crash occurred shortly before 5 p.m. CT on I-40 West in Knoxville.
- Rucker’s family includes a wife, a young son, Hank, and an unborn daughter, intensifying the community’s response.
- WVLT’s coverage confirms Rucker’s impact as a longtime Knoxville sports journalist and valued WBIR colleague.
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