Crittenden County, Arkansas (January 29, 2026) — A morning commute turned deadly Thursday when a chain-reaction crash involving two semi-trucks and a passenger vehicle left Matthew Coles, 43, of Marion, Arkansas, dead and three others injured on Interstate 55 near Marion, according to the Arkansas State Police.
Incident Details: The fatal collision occurred at approximately 7:48 a.m. near the nine-mile marker on northbound I-55 in Crittenden County. Arkansas State Police said a 2017 Freightliner driven by Ronnie Black, 50, of Walnut Ridge, was merging onto the interstate from a rest area when it was struck from behind by a second semi-truck, a 2019 Freightliner driven by Zivko Josipovic, 57, of Hudsonville, Michigan.
Following the rear-end collision, Josipovic’s semi-truck left the roadway, crossed through the cable median barriers, and entered the southbound lanes of I-55. Once in opposing traffic, the semi collided head-on with a 2006 Honda Accord driven by Matthew Coles.
Coles sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead as a result of the crash. A minor passenger in Coles’ vehicle was transported to a hospital with injuries, along with both semi-truck drivers. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly detailed.
Authorities noted that road conditions were icy at the time of the collision, a factor that may have significantly affected stopping distances and vehicle control.
Investigation: The Arkansas State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. In multi-vehicle collisions involving commercial trucks and winter road conditions, investigators typically focus on speed, following distance, braking response, and whether drivers adjusted their driving to account for reduced traction. Authorities will likely analyze physical evidence and commercial truck data, such as speed, throttle, and braking to reconstruct the crash. Witness and dashcam footage will also aid reconstruction.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no charges have been announced at this time.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving commercial trucks and hazardous road conditions raise complex liability questions. While icy weather can be a contributing factor, drivers of large commercial vehicles are still expected to operate with heightened caution, especially near rest areas and during winter conditions that reduce traction and visibility. Civil liability assessment involves evaluating driver conduct, adherence to federal safety regulations, vehicle maintenance, and precautions taken for weather. Responsibility may extend beyond drivers to the trucking companies or entities overseeing operations and safety.
For the family of Matthew Coles, pursuing a wrongful death claim may help address funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the profound emotional impact of a sudden and violent loss. The injured parties may also consider personal injury claims to compensate for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These claims exist to provide a measure of accountability and stability when a life is taken on the roadway.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Matthew Coles and to those injured in this tragic collision.
Source: KAIT 8 News