Hampton Roads, Va. — A tragic early-morning crash inside the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel has claimed the life of Thomas Wiley, 39, of Virginia Beach, leaving family, friends, and the greater Hampton Roads community mourning a life lost far too soon.
Virginia State Police confirmed that Thomas Wiley was the driver of a disabled vehicle involved in a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred at approximately 2:38 a.m. on January 5, 2026, along Interstate 64 eastbound inside the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. Authorities say Wiley was pronounced deceased at the scene after he was reportedly ejected from his vehicle during the collision.
According to investigators, the crash began when a gray Nissan Altima driven by Wiley suffered a blown tire while traveling through the tunnel. The vehicle became disabled in one of the travel lanes, creating a dangerous and vulnerable situation in the confined space of the tunnel. Moments later, the disabled vehicle was struck by a red Acura MDX that was traveling at a high rate of speed.
The driver of the second vehicle was identified as Torro J. Huggins, 36, of Newport News. Police said Huggins sustained injuries in the crash and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. His current condition has not been publicly released.
The sudden and violent nature of the crash has left loved ones grappling with overwhelming grief. Thomas Wiley is remembered as more than just a name in an accident report — he was a son, a family member, a friend, and a member of the Virginia Beach community whose life ended in a moment of tragedy. Those who knew him describe the loss as devastating and deeply painful, as his life was cut short under circumstances no one could have anticipated.
Virginia State Police have stated that charges are pending as investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the collision in consultation with the Hampton Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the crash.
The fatal incident also serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers motorists face, particularly in high-speed, enclosed roadways like tunnels, where disabled vehicles and limited reaction time can quickly turn deadly. Officials continue to urge drivers to remain vigilant, reduce speed, and exercise extreme caution when traveling through tunnels and other high-risk areas.
As the investigation continues, the focus for many remains on honoring the life of Thomas Wiley and offering comfort to those who loved him. The Hampton Roads community extends its deepest condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time, holding them in thoughts and prayers as they mourn a profound and heartbreaking loss.
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