Steven Kotsonis, Johnson City, Obituary, Death: DUI charges follow deadly downtown crash that killed Toby Cornett
A devastating overnight crash in downtown Johnson City has now led to multiple criminal charges after authorities said a dangerous chain of events left one man dead and several others injured. Investigators identified the victim as 34-year-old Toby Cornett, whose death has shaken family members and residents across the community.
The crash happened shortly after 1:29 a.m. Saturday near West Main Street, across from Trek Bicycle Johnson City. According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the vehicle involved suddenly went out of control before striking a curb and veering off into a nearby parking lot area. Officials said the impact scene stretched across part of the downtown corridor.
Authorities said the vehicle then slammed into a lamp post and city signage before crashing into bushes, where it finally came to a stop. Emergency responders rushed to help the victims and found multiple people suffering injuries from the violent wreck.
Toby Cornett was seriously injured in the crash and later died after being transported for medical treatment. Three other people inside the vehicle survived but suffered injuries. Officials identified the injured victims as a 22-year-old and two 23-year-olds, though no further update on their conditions has been released publicly.
Following the investigation at the scene, authorities arrested 36-year-old Steven Kotsonis. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said Kotsonis now faces several charges tied to the deadly crash, including vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, DUI, reckless driving, reckless endangerment, leaving the scene involving property damage, and failure to exercise due care.
Investigators said the arrest came after officers gathered evidence and examined the circumstances surrounding the collision. Officials have not yet released additional details explaining exactly what caused the driver to lose control before the deadly impact unfolded downtown.
Authorities also revealed that another passenger who was inside the vehicle could soon face charges as the investigation continues. At this stage, officials have not publicly identified that passenger or announced the expected charges.
The tragic death of Toby Cornett has left many people in Johnson City mourning while questions continue surrounding the late-night crash. Community members have been expressing sympathy for the victim’s family as investigators work to piece together the final moments before the vehicle careened into the parking lot.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol confirmed the investigation remains active and ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence connected to the deadly downtown wreck.
