Wes Rucke Obituary News – A longtime journalist who covered University of Tennessee athletics has died following a multi-vehicle crash in Knoxville, according to authorities and family members. He was 43.
Family members identified the victim as Wes Rucker, a respected sports reporter who had covered the Volunteers since 2000. His father-in-law, David Goldberg, confirmed the death in a social media post, describing the family as heartbroken.
The Knoxville Police Department said officers responded to a crash on Interstate 40 West near the Cedar Bluff Road exit at approximately 4:50 p.m. on Feb. 19. The department reported that one person died in the five-vehicle collision. Authorities did not initially release the victim’s name, but family later confirmed Rucker was the individual who died.
According to a police news release, the crash began when a vehicle was stopped in traffic and was rear-ended, resulting in minor damage. Investigators said a third vehicle then struck the second vehicle, triggering a chain reaction. Moments later, a pickup truck collided with one of the involved vehicles. Police said the adult male driver of that vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Knoxville Police Department stated that the investigation remains in its early stages and is ongoing. No additional details about potential charges or contributing factors have been released.
Rucker built a career covering University of Tennessee athletics across multiple media outlets over more than two decades. Most recently, he worked as a writer and host for WBIR-TV. Throughout his career, he was widely recognized for his in-depth reporting, distinctive voice, and connection with fans of Tennessee sports.
Colleagues and readers have described him as a dedicated journalist and storyteller who brought insight and personality to his coverage. In addition to his professional accomplishments, family members and friends remembered him as a devoted husband and father.
On Dec. 31, Rucker shared that he and his wife, Lauren, were expecting their second child, a daughter due in May. The announcement, posted to his social media followers in his characteristic lighthearted style, reflected his enthusiasm about expanding his family.
Authorities have not released further updates as the crash investigation continues. Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Knoxville Police Department.
Community members, colleagues, and readers continue to express condolences to Rucker’s family as they remember his contributions to sports journalism and the Knoxville community.
