SUV struck by tire from passing vehicle near Atlantic Avenue Bridge
November 15, 2025 | Raleigh, NC
A tragic incident on Interstate 440 claimed the life of 55-year-old Bernard Wanjohi Kamara when his Toyota RAV4 was struck by a tire that detached from a 2013 Volkswagen Passat.
The accident occurred near the Atlantic Avenue Bridge, resulting in Kamara's death at the scene. Raleigh Police are investigating the crash, which happened on a Saturday morning.
Bernard Wanjohi Kamara, 55, of Raleigh, was killed when his Toyota Rav4 was hit by a tire that detached from a 2013 Volkswagen Passat on Interstate 440 near the Atlantic Avenue Bridge.
What Happened in the Crash?
Key details of the incident include:
- Victim: Bernard Wanjohi Kamara, 55, driving a Toyota RAV4.
- Cause: A tire detached from a 2013 Volkswagen Passat, crossed the median barrier, and struck Kamara's SUV.
- Time and Location: Approximately 6:55 a.m. on Interstate 440 near the Atlantic Avenue Bridge in Raleigh, NC.
- Outcome: Kamara was tragically killed, no other injuries reported.
- Suspect Vehicle Driver: Tyree B. McKinnie, 28, of Raleigh.
The detached tire went over the median and directly impacted Kamara's vehicle, leading to the fatal collision.
Who Was Charged in the Incident?
Raleigh Police charged Tyree B. McKinnie with involuntary manslaughter, driving without a license, and expired vehicle registration. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing to determine further details and potential liabilities.
Why Do Tire-Related Accidents Happen?
Tire-related crashes are a significant concern on U.S. roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 11,000 tire-related crashes occur daily across the country. These incidents often stem from defective tires, improper maintenance, or manufacturing flaws.
Statistic |
Source |
Details |
|---|
Daily Tire-Related Crashes |
NHTSA |
About 11,000 incidents per day in the U.S. |
Tire Failure Contribution to Fatalities |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Tire blowouts account for up to 11% of crashes involving large trucks, with similar risks for passenger vehicles. |
Recalled Tires Impact |
NHTSA |
Over 300 million tires recalled in the past decade due to defects. |
Factors contributing to such accidents include worn treads, underinflation, and manufacturing defects. Regular tire inspections can prevent many of these tragedies.
Legal Insights
Newsline consulted national legal analysts for expert perspectives on motor vehicle crashes involving tire failures.
“In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted soon after the incident to preserve critical evidence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst with Newsline. “Tires from major manufacturers have been found defective in several high-profile cases. Inspecting the failed tire and involving an accident reconstruction expert is essential for determining liability and securing compensation for affected parties.”
Key takeaways from legal experts:
- Independent Probe: Essential to examine the tire for defects and reconstruct the crash scene.
- Potential Liability: May extend to tire manufacturers, distributors, or retailers if a defect is identified.
- Wrongful Death Claims: Families may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
“Families enduring such losses deserve protection of their rights through a thorough wrongful death claim process,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “Staying informed on the official investigation ensures the best interests of grieving relatives are prioritized, allowing them to pursue rightful compensation.”
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).