KING AND QUEEN COUNTY, Va. — A devastating accident early Thursday morning has claimed the life of Jacob Bozeman, an emergency medical technician (EMT), after a dump truck collided with an ambulance in King and Queen County. The Kilmarnock-Lancaster County Volunteer Rescue Squad confirmed Bozeman’s death in a heartfelt social media post, expressing profound grief over the loss of a dedicated first responder. “It is with great sadness that we share the news of a tragic accident that occurred this morning in King and Queen County,” the post read. “A dump truck turned in front of a VCU Health Tappahannock ambulance operated by two AMR employees. Tragically, the driver of the ambulance, Jacob Bozeman, was pronounced deceased at the scene.” The post extended condolences to Bozeman’s family, VCU Health, and AMR, highlighting the profound impact of his loss on the EMS community.
According to Virginia State Police, the accident occurred around 6:50 a.m. near the intersection of Route 360 and Fleet Mill Road. A dump truck attempted to use a crossover on the highway, pulling in front of the ambulance, which was traveling along Route 360. The ambulance was not responding to an emergency call at the time, and no patients were on board. The collision caused extensive damage to both vehicles, leaving the scene in chaos.
Eyewitnesses described the aftermath as overwhelming. Jordan Brooks, who witnessed the crash, recounted the scene. “There were tons and tons of first responders,” she said. “Just seeing it, my heart broke. The impact on the vehicle and the condition it was in, along with the number of people around, made it clear that something really terrible had happened.” Brooks said she immediately began praying for those involved, telling her children, “We need to say a prayer right now because something terrible must have happened.”
In addition to Bozeman’s tragic death, two other individuals were injured in the crash. Paramedic Christopher Mack, who was in the ambulance, was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the dump truck was also hospitalized with similar injuries, police confirmed. Emergency responders from multiple agencies worked tirelessly at the scene, underscoring the severity of the accident.
In response to the tragedy, AMR, the emergency medical services company employing Bozeman, issued a statement acknowledging the dangers faced by EMS personnel. “Every day, our EMS crews put themselves on the front lines to save lives and serve their communities with dedication and compassion,” the statement read. “This incident is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks they take in the name of caring for others.”
Bozeman’s death has left a profound void in the EMS community and among his loved ones. Known for his dedication and compassion, Bozeman’s commitment to saving lives will not be forgotten. His colleagues, friends, and family are mourning the loss of a man who devoted his life to helping others.
Virginia State Police continue to investigate the crash to determine the exact cause and circumstances. Authorities have not yet stated whether charges will be filed against the dump truck driver. The investigation will likely examine factors such as driver behavior, road conditions, and vehicle mechanics.
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks EMTs and paramedics face daily while serving their communities. As the community mourns the loss of Jacob Bozeman, they also honor his legacy of selflessness and dedication to saving lives.
