SMYRNA, Tenn. (WTVF) — On Friday night, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office and Smyrna Police came together to remember a special young life lost on Interstate 24.
Ten years ago, 13-year-old Clifton Braunwalder was killed by an impaired driver. He was helping change a tire on the side of the road.
"We miss his smile and his laugh and all the joy that he brought to everyone's life," said Amanda Braunwalder.
From 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. Friday, law enforcement will host a sobriety checkpoint along Sam Ridley Parkway in Smyrna, near the site of the accident to honor Clifton. They've invited the Braunwalder family. They will periodically stop cars and check drivers to make sure they're sober.
"You're not the only person on the road, don't be so proud to call your friend, call your pastor, call your friend, call your family member," said Amanda.
Amanda says if you choose to be impaired, she hopes you think of Clifton before you get behind the wheel.
Tina Wilson, the woman who hit and killed Clifton, remains in jail. She was sentenced to 18 years.
There are still so many families in East Tennessee hurting following the floods from Hurricane Helene in September. That made this year's running of the Santa Train extra special for many families in the northeast part of the state. This special Santa Express has been making an annual run in part of Appalachia for over 80 years.
-Lelan Statom
