ASHEVILLE, NC — Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash on I-240 Claims Life of Local Resident
ASHEVILLE, NC – A tragic collision on Interstate 240 in West Asheville on the evening of Saturday, June 7, 2025, has resulted in the death of Zacharia Robert Cosgrove, 41, of Asheville. The Asheville Police Department confirmed the fatality in a statement released late Saturday night, as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred around 7:15 p.m. on the westbound lanes of I-240 near the Patton Avenue exit. Cosgrove was driving a 2015 Jeep Wrangler when he attempted to change lanes. During the maneuver, his vehicle made contact with another car in the adjacent lane, triggering a chain-reaction crash involving at least three other vehicles.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes and began efforts to triage and assist those involved. Despite immediate medical attention from first responders and paramedics, Cosgrove was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. No other fatalities have been reported, though several individuals were transported to Mission Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The crash resulted in significant traffic delays, with westbound lanes of I-240 closed for several hours as police conducted an on-site investigation and crews worked to clear the wreckage. The closure caused substantial congestion throughout surrounding areas of West Asheville, with authorities urging drivers to seek alternate routes during the evening hours.
The Asheville Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit is leading the investigation and is working to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the collision. At this time, no charges have been filed, and no indication of impairment has been reported. Authorities are calling on any witnesses to come forward with information or dashcam footage that may assist in the ongoing investigation.
Zacharia Robert Cosgrove was a well-known member of the Asheville community, remembered by neighbors and friends for his warm demeanor and involvement in local outreach programs. News of his death has sent shockwaves through the community, with many taking to social media to share memories, condolences, and tributes.
“This is such a devastating loss,” said one longtime friend on Facebook. “Zach was one of the kindest souls I’ve known. He always went out of his way to help others and bring people together.”
In response to the tragedy, grief counselors are being made available at several local organizations Cosgrove was affiliated with, including the Asheville Community Center and the West Asheville Food Co-op. A candlelight vigil is being planned for the evening of June 10 at Carrier Park to honor his life and legacy.
Asheville Police continue to stress the importance of cautious and defensive driving, especially on major highways and during peak traffic hours. The department reminds all drivers to remain alert, use proper signals when changing lanes, and adhere to posted speed limits to help prevent such tragedies in the future.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information relevant to the case is urged to contact the Asheville Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit at (828) 252-1110.
More details will be provided as the investigation continues and as the community prepares to say goodbye to a beloved son, friend, and neighbor.
