UPDATE: Perdue Employee Killed in Crash off of Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — A tractor-trailer plunged into the water early Sunday from the southbound span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, prompting an extensive search effort and lane closures along the bridge.

Authorities have since confirmed the driver died in the crash. He has been identified as 61-year-old Ronnie Andrews of Robersonville, North Carolina.

Officials said the crash happened around 6:30 a.m. on the west side of the southbound span, just south of Fisherman’s Island. No other vehicles were involved.

The impact damaged a guardrail and curb along the bridge, and maintenance crews were dispatched to make emergency repairs. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Virginia Beach Marine Police assisted in the search for the driver.

In a statement to WMDT, Perdue Farms confirmed Andrews was one of their employees.

“We are heartbroken to confirm that a Perdue driver has passed away following an accident on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel,” the company said. “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. We are cooperating fully with authorities as they continue their investigation.”

The crash remains under investigation by Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Police. Authorities say their thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Andrews and his family at this time.

Bay Bridge-Tunnel authorities say it will take several days to make those repairs. Currently, there is a single lane open near the accident.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this article stated that all lanes were open as of Sunday, Feb. 15, with normal traffic patterns resuming.