The tight‑knit residents of Lost Creek, West Virginia are reeling after the tragic death of 49‑year‑old Ronald Blair Porrin, who was killed early Sunday morning when his tractor‑trailer veered off southbound Interstate 79 near mile marker 110 in Harrison County, West Virginia. According to the West Virginia State Police, Porrin was the only person in the vehicle and was ejected during the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Shortly before 11:30 a.m., county 911 dispatchers received the call about the semi‑truck that had left the road. Emergency crews reached the site quickly, but the injuries Porrin sustained were fatal. Authorities say the vehicle — hauling a tanker‑style trailer — crossed the right side of the highway, went over a guardrail and down an embankment, coming to rest in a ravine east of the interstate.
Family, friends, and neighbors describe Porrin as a valued and well‑known member of the Lost Creek community. His loss has cast a shadow over the town, as lowered voices and heartfelt condolences reflect both personal grief and a wider reminder of how quickly life can change on the road. Residents are remembering his easy smile, willingness to help, and his quiet dedication in daily life around town.
Though the investigation remains active, there are preliminary indications that Porrin’s truck drifted off the roadway for reasons yet undetermined. The State Police continue to gather evidence — including any video footage, witness statements, and details about vehicle condition and road circumstances — to determine exactly what caused that fatal departure from the highway. Officials have urged anyone who may have seen the truck, the moments leading up to the crash, or observed unusual traffic behavior in that area to contact them to help clarify what happened.
In addition to the ongoing probe, this incident has ignited discussions locally about highway safety and vigilance. The embankment, the guardrail breach and the remote nature of the embankment drop‑off all speak to how unforgiving certain stretches of interstate can be. It’s a poignant reminder not only for truck drivers but for all motorists: distraction, fatigue, mechanical issues or momentary loss of control can lead to devastating outcomes.
For the Porrin family and the greater Lost Creek community, the days ahead will be about grappling with sorrow while gathering to support one another. As one neighbor put it: “Ronnie was just part of us — when he was gone it reminded you how fragile our connections are.” Services and memorial plans are expected to be announced in the coming days, but in the meantime, the community is keeping his loved ones in their thoughts and prayers.
While traffic on I‑79 returned to normal after the wreckage was removed, the practical and emotional aftermath continues. The guardrail and embankment site are now under review by state highway crews, and local safety advocates are calling for renewed attention to signage, guardrail strength and shoulder maintenance in this section of the interstate. Porrin’s tragic passing is serving as both a personal loss and a communal wake‑up call: we drive the roads, but the roads don’t forgive.
