The trucking community and loved ones across eastern North Carolina are mourning the loss of Ronnie Andrews, a 61-year-old veteran driver who tragically lost his life in a crash on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. A resident of Robersonville, Andrews was a longtime employee of Perdue Farms and a respected figure in the transportation industry.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 15. Andrews was traveling southbound near the North Channel Bridge when his tractor-trailer veered off course, broke through guardrails, and plunged into the water below. Emergency responders later recovered his body, along with the truck and trailer, later that evening. Officials confirmed that no other vehicles were involved, and the cause of the crash remains under active investigation.
For many who knew Ronnie, the tragedy carries an especially poignant weight. Seven years earlier, in 2018, he survived a serious trucking accident that he described at the time as a near-death experience. In a Facebook post following that crash, Andrews expressed gratitude for his survival, writing, “Blessed to be here. A few scratches but thank God I’m alive!” The message, paired with a photo of his wrecked truck, reflected his deep faith and appreciation for life.
Ronnie dedicated 35 years to the trucking profession, building a career defined by experience, resilience, and reliability. Five of those years were spent driving for Perdue Farms, where he was regarded as a valued and dependable team member. The company released a statement extending condolences to his family and recognizing his contributions.
His wife, Lovie Andrews, shared that the two had spoken the night before the fatal crash. She told local station WAVY-TV that he did not mention fatigue or any concerns. Their final conversation, ordinary at the time, has now become a treasured memory.
Ronnie Andrews is remembered as a dedicated professional and a man of gratitude and perseverance. From surviving a devastating wreck in 2018 to continuing his life on the road, he embodied commitment and strength. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues who knew him best.