CAPE CHARLES, Va. - Officials say around 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, a tractor trailer went overboard and into the water on the west-side of the southbound span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
The accident occurred just south of Fisherman's Island. No other vehicles were involved.
Images from WBOC's Chopper 16 show the tractor trailer in the water is a Perdue truck.
In a statement to WBOC, Perdue confirmed that the driver died in the incident.
"We are heartbroken to confirm that a Perdue driver has passed away following an accident on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge‑Tunnel," Perdue's statement reads. "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. He had been a valued member of our team, and his loss will be deeply felt across our organization."
The company says it is fully cooperating with investigators.
On Sunday night, authorities with the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel identified Ronnie Andrews, 61, of Robersonville, NC, as the driver.
CCBT officials say a single lane of traffic is open in the southbound direction around the scene of the accident. They say the lane closure will remain in place until maintenance crews complete more repairs, which they think will take several days.
The bridge has sustained guardrail and curb damage and maintenance crews have made emergency repairs, officials say. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Virginia Beach Marine Police assisted in the search for the driver.
The accident is being investigated by the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Police. CBBT officials say the weather was not a factor in the accident, as there was no rain, mild winds around 15mph, and fair visibility.
You can also see updates on the official X account for the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel here.
