Jonesboro, AR — A 20-year-old Manila man has died following a three-vehicle crash that occurred Thursday morning in east Jonesboro, according to Arkansas State Police.
Wesley Palmer, of Manila, was identified as the driver of a 2021 Ford F150 pickup truck that was traveling westbound on Highland Drive when the vehicle crossed the center left turn lane and collided with an eastbound 2025 Freightliner tractor-trailer.
The impact of the collision pushed the Freightliner into the outside lane, where it then struck an eastbound 2018 GMC Yukon.
The crash was reported around 7:24 a.m. Thursday at the intersection of East Highland Drive, also known as Highway 18, and Easley Lane. Palmer died as a result of the crash. A minor passenger riding in the Yukon was also injured and was transported to St. Bernard’s Medical Center for treatment.
Jonesboro Police Department Corporal Zach Kaja led the investigation into the crash. East Highland Drive was shut down for roughly two hours while crews worked to clear the scene, and Jonesboro E911 confirmed the roadway reopened shortly before 9:30 a.m.
Community Mourns Young Life Lost
News of Palmer’s death has spread quickly through the Manila and Jonesboro communities, with friends and loved ones sharing tributes on social media in the days following the crash. Palmer was remembered by those close to him as someone who was still early in building his life and future.
One friend wrote online that Palmer was just beginning to find his footing in life, adding that he had watched Palmer grow into the man he became. The tribute described the loss as feeling like an ongoing bad dream, while expressing hope of reuniting with Palmer again someday.
Others who knew Palmer echoed similar sentiments, expressing shock and sorrow over his sudden death and describing him as someone who would be deeply missed by those who knew him. Palmer had ties to Manila, Arkansas, including connections to Manila Public Schools, and was known within the small, close-knit community.
Investigation Continues Following Fatal Collision
The crash remains under investigation by Jonesboro police and Arkansas State Police as authorities continue to piece together the exact circumstances that led to the three-vehicle collision. Officials have not released additional information regarding potential citations or contributing factors in the crash.
This is at least the latest in a string of fatal traffic accidents reported across the region in recent days, as law enforcement agencies continue to urge drivers to remain cautious, particularly at intersections involving turn lanes and larger commercial vehicles.
Funeral and memorial arrangements for Wesley Palmer have not yet been publicly announced. The Manila and Jonesboro communities continue to extend condolences to Palmer’s family and friends during this difficult time.
