Fiery I-40 Crash, Monroe County Claims Life of Rulon Pitcher

MONROE COUNTY, Ark—Freightliner crash on I-40 leaves one dead, one injured

On July 26, 2025 at 5:05 p.m., Arkansas State Police reported a deadly crash on I-40 eastbound near mile marker 209 in Monroe County. A Freightliner tractor-trailer was traveling in the right lane when it veered across the fog line and struck a 2021 Volvo parked on the south shoulder. The Freightliner continued about 118 feet, hit the cable barrier, and caught fire.

Fatality: Rulon Pitcher, 77, of Dublin, a passenger in the Freightliner, was ejected and died at the scene.
Injured: Robert Sohns, 71, of Cleburne, the Freightliner driver, was transported to Forrest City Medical Center.

Weather conditions were clear and the roadway was dry. The Monroe County Coroner’s Office took custody of the victim.

Note: Arkansas State Police fatal crash summaries are preliminary and may be updated as investigations continue.

Arkansas wrongful death claims after a fatal truck crash

Under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-102, surviving family members or a personal representative can file a wrongful death claim to recover damages such as lost financial support, funeral expenses, and the loss of companionship. Families typically have three years from the date of death to file. A survival action under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-101 may also recover medical expenses and pain suffered by the deceased before death.

Preserving evidence after a Freightliner crash

Fatal truck crashes often involve multiple layers of investigation, including whether driver fatigue, mechanical issues, or roadway conditions played a role. Lawyers gather electronic logging device data, dash camera footage, inspection reports, and vehicle black box data to determine liability. Because commercial trucking companies move quickly to protect themselves, families should act promptly to preserve critical evidence.

Arkansas wrongful death attorneys ready to act

Ludwig's Wrongful Death and Big Truck Accident Attorneys prepare every case as though it will go to trial. In complex cases, we coordinate with trusted trial partners like Harry Warden of Warden Law Firm to ensure our clients receive both strong advocacy and compassionate guidance. We represent families across Arkansas in pursuit of accountability after tragic accidents.

Steps families should take after a fatal truck crash in Arkansas

1. Contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible.

2. Preserve insurance papers, police reports, and funeral expenses.

3. Avoid giving recorded statements without legal guidance.

4. Collect photos, text messages, or dash camera video if available.

5. Ask your lawyer to send preservation letters to trucking companies.

Our Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help

If your family has suffered a wrongful death in Arkansas, call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We fight for full accountability after tragic accidents.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Arkansas?
A. Usually the personal representative or statutory beneficiaries named by law.

Q. How long do families have to file?
A. Three years from the date of death, unless an exception applies.

Q. Does a survival action differ from wrongful death?
A. Yes. A survival action belongs to the estate and recovers damages the deceased could have claimed if they had survived.