The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and communities across West Tennessee are mourning the tragic loss of Cathy Sims, a dedicated TDOT employee who was killed in a collision between a department vehicle and a CSX freight train in Haywood County on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Her sudden passing has left family members, friends, coworkers, and public officials grieving the loss of a respected public servant whose career was devoted to serving the people of Tennessee.
According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 10:42 a.m. at the railroad crossing on State Route 179 (1 Cotton Lane) near Stanton. Preliminary investigators said the TDOT vehicle was attempting to cross the tracks when the railroad warning system activated and the crossing gates began to lower. Authorities reported that one of the crossing arms struck the vehicle. The driver initially backed up before attempting to move forward to clear the tracks, but an eastbound CSX freight train struck the vehicle before it could safely exit the crossing.
Investigators said Cathy Sims was ejected during the collision. Emergency personnel from Haywood County Ambulance Service responded quickly, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. Following the impact, the vehicle caught fire, and firefighters from the Haywood County Fire Department extinguished the blaze. Officials confirmed that no members of the train crew were injured.
TDOT later identified the victim as Cathy Sims and released a statement expressing condolences to her family and colleagues.
“We are mourning the loss of a TDOT worker killed today on State Route 179 in Haywood County in an unfortunate accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Out of respect for them, we have no more details to share at this time. An investigation is ongoing,” TDOT spokesperson Nichole Lawrence said.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the investigation in cooperation with CSX Railroad, the Haywood County Medical Examiner’s Office, and other local agencies. Officials said investigators are reviewing the railroad crossing systems, vehicle evidence, and witness statements to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision. No conclusions regarding fault have been announced.
News of Cathy Sims’ passing has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from coworkers, state officials, and community members who remember her as a hardworking and dedicated employee. Through her service with TDOT, she played a role in maintaining Tennessee’s transportation infrastructure and improving roadway safety for motorists across the state.
At the time of publication, funeral and memorial service arrangements had not been publicly announced. TDOT has asked the public to keep Cathy Sims’ family, friends, and coworkers in their thoughts as they navigate this difficult loss.
Cathy Sims will be remembered for her professionalism, dedication to public service, and commitment to improving the lives of others through her work. Her passing is a tremendous loss to her family, colleagues, and the many communities she faithfully served throughout her career. Her legacy of service and dedication will not be forgotten.