New Trials for Deadly Virginia Fire Truck Wreck Suit

Two new trials will be held for a lawsuit stemming from a wreck that killed two Rocky Mount volunteer firefighters.

Franklin County Judge William Alexander says he failed to allow specific testimony from an expert witness for the plaintiff, along with related portions from a training manual.

The second trial will focus solely on damages.

The Roanoke Times reports that Alexander ordered the new trials on Friday.

Christie Altice-Weaver sued Teri Anne Valentine and the estate of Rocky Mount Fire Chief Posey Dillon. Valentine was driving a sport utility vehicle that collided with a fire truck in 2010 as Dillon and Altice-Weaver’s father, firefighter William “Danny” Altice, were responding to a call.

In September, a jury found Valentine negligent. The jury cleared Dillon of any negligence.