YouTube Video Distraction Leads to Fatal Accident Involving Tow Truck Operator

A driver is facing allegations of tampering with evidence after reportedly watching YouTube videos while behind the wheel, leading to a tragic incident where he struck and killed a tow truck driver.

According to police, on Wednesday, September 25, Shodmon Yuldashev, 29, was engrossed in YouTube videos while operating his semi-truck when he collided with and fatally injured a man on the roadside.

The accident took place on Interstate 64 in Bath County, Kentucky. Officers reported that the victim, 54-year-old Troy Caldwell, was in the process of loading his tow truck with another vehicle when he was struck.

Yuldashev faces multiple charges, and police suggest he may have been aware of his wrongdoing, as he allegedly attempted to delete his YouTube viewing history immediately following the incident.

Reports indicate that Yuldashev tried to disable his tablet and conceal it during his arrest, leading to an additional charge for tampering with physical evidence.

Troy Caldwell is survived by his father and wife.

Following news of Caldwell’s passing, a longtime coworker in the towing industry expressed that he died doing what he loved, emphasizing that Caldwell always prioritized safety.

“He was just a really upstanding guy; he loved what he did,” shared Bubba Johnson.

“He was ‘Mr. Safety.’ He was always checking and rechecking, and was always dressed in fluorescent gear. He was the person you’d want leading your safety meeting.”

Community members in the towing industry came together to honor their friend, acknowledging the profound impact Caldwell had.

“The turnout from towing companies in support of a fallen veteran of our industry was incredible, giving everyone who witnessed it chills. Troy would have been amazed; he was such a great guy, he probably never imagined the impact he had on people,” Johnson shared on TikTok.

@bubbahooker911
We want to take a moment to express our gratitude to Northcutt & Son Home For Funerals and the city of Morehead for their exceptional handling of Troy Caldwell’s funeral service and final farewell. The gathering of towing companies to support a fallen veteran of our industry was breathtaking and gave everyone who witnessed it chills. Troy would have been absolutely amazed; being such a great guy, he probably would have never dreamed of such a turnout, he would have been smiling ear to ear. Our industry often goes unnoticed for what we face daily, and these moments serve as vital reminders of the dangers we encounter. Please don’t let Troy’s death go in vain; continue to support the SLOW DOWN MOVE OVER initiative, as one blue light can save a life. Thank you once again to everyone for the kindness and prayers extended to his family and friends during this difficult time.

♬ Heroes – Casting Crowns

Morehead Police Chief Derrick Blevins also commented on Caldwell’s death, describing it as a significant loss.

“Troy was a nice guy, always willing to assist with anything you needed. He consistently went above and beyond at accident scenes, making this loss tough for everyone,” Blevins stated.

As noted in Caldwell’s obituary, he is survived by his father and spouse. He had a variety of hobbies, including working, collecting Hot Wheels and baseball cards, woodworking, and enjoying time with friends and family. His absence will be profoundly felt,” the obituary remarked.

In another tragic event earlier this September, three individuals lost their lives when a bus overturned on a narrow highway in Brazil. Despite the severity of the event, journalist MC Livinho drew criticism for dancing while reporting from the location, leading internet users to label his actions as “disrespectful.”

Source