Tennessee Woman Accused of Killing Husband and Shooting Son Dies After Deliberately Crashing Into Semi in Apparent Suicide Attempt, Officials Say
TENNESSEE — Authorities in Dyer County, Tennessee, have released disturbing new details after a woman intentionally crashed into a flatbed semi truck on Thursday morning — an act investigators say was part of an apparent suicide attempt following a deadly domestic shooting inside her home.
Officials identified the woman as 60-year-old Sherry Darlene Lydon, who allegedly shot her husband and adult son before fleeing the residence and causing the fatal collision.
Officials: Woman Shot Husband and Son Before Fleeing Home
According to the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began early on December 18, 2025, when Lydon allegedly shot her husband, William Lydon Jr., while he was asleep. Deputies say she then shot her 24-year-old son, who suffered serious injuries but survived. William Lydon died at the scene. After the shootings, investigators say Lydon left the home alone, got into her vehicle, and began driving through the county.
Intentional Crash Into Semi Truck Described as Suicide Attempt
Authorities reported that Lydon deliberately crashed into a flatbed semi truck, striking it head-on at high speed in what officials described as an intentional act. Emergency crews transported her to a hospital, but she died from her injuries later that evening. Deputies noted that the truck driver was not injured during the collision.
Investigators Reviewing Possible Contributing Factors
The sheriff’s office revealed that Lydon had recently undergone surgery and had reportedly been suffering from night terrors, anxiety, and sleep disturbances — factors investigators believe may be relevant to the case. Mental health challenges, combined with recovery complications, are being considered as part of the ongoing review. Authorities emphasize that the investigation remains active as they work to fully understand the circumstances leading up to the shootings and the fatal crash.
Community Impact and Ongoing Review
Residents in Dyer County expressed shock at the sequence of events, which unfolded rapidly and left one man dead, another hospitalized, and the suspected shooter deceased within hours. Officials say more information will be released as the investigation continues. For ongoing national crime coverage and major safety updates, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
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