Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
WESTERN GROVE, Ark. (KOAM/KJFX) — Late Monday afternoon May 18, 2026, about 5:15 p.m. reports of an 18-wheeler that had veered off US-65 into the building, Grice’s Grocery & Deli alerted E-911.
Western Grove Fire, EMS and Newton County, Ark. Deputies responded. Additional aid were alerted incl. Harrison Fire Dept, Arkansas State Troopers, NPS Police, Valley Park Fire and others.
“Extrication tools were used to free the driver from the cab. He was wedged in pretty tight and it took a while to make sure he was out safely.” — Lee Dunlap
Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
The driver and only one person from the store were transported by ambulances from NARMC. A medical helicopter was also utilized for transport.
The Newton County Ark. Sheriff was at the scene along with Newton County Deputies, State Police Troopers, and Law enforcement with the National Park Service. Fire Department’s responded included Harrison, Valley Springs, Western Grove, and others.
Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
Tractor trailer drives into grocery store, complicated rescue. Courtesy Lee Dunlap.
“This one had everything from demolished semi, unstable building, load of timbers in store, propane bottles, to leaking fluids. Proud of everyone working together with a good outcome for our patient.” — Harrison Ark. Fire
The photos tell an incredible story of the rescue, all courtesy Lee Dunlap.
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