Pastor Killed in Tragic Bike Accident After Being Sideswiped by Semi-Truck

A beloved Tennessee pastor was killed Tuesday morning after being sideswiped by a semi-truck during his daily bike ride — just hours before he was set to lead his congregation in prayer.

According to the Alcoa Police Department, the accident happened just before 8 a.m. on East Hunt Road near North Wright Road in Alcoa. Investigators say the 18-wheeler and the cyclist were traveling in the same direction when the truck sideswiped the bicycle, throwing the rider onto the pavement.

First responders rushed to the scene and immediately performed CPR on the victim before transporting him to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead.

The victim was identified as 61-year-old Pastor Rowland Buck of Alcoa, a prominent faith leader and pastor at St. Mark’s Global Methodist Church in Louisville.

Pastor Buck had served at St. Mark’s since 2019 and was widely respected across Tennessee’s faith community. He was an ordained elder in the Global Methodist Church and served as dean of the Cabinet of the MidSouth Annual Conference, as well as presiding elder of the Knoxville District.

“He was a mighty warrior, a man of faith, a man who deeply loved Jesus,” said Jason Rowe, a longtime friend and fellow pastor, speaking to ABC affiliate WATE. “He lived his faith. He wanted people to experience and know the peace of Christ. That’s why he had such an impact on so many lives.”

Rowe, who had known Buck for over two decades, grew emotional as he described their bond. “It was like brothers. We ate together, prayed together, traveled together. He baptized my oldest child. This isn’t just a loss for the church — it’s personal.”

Buck was married to his high school sweetheart, Sinda, for 38 years. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and community service. Church members describe Sinda as a constant presence by her husband’s side, supporting his work while also quietly leading within the congregation.

Rev. Todd Chancey, superintendent of the MidSouth Annual Conference, released a statement praising Buck’s devotion: “Rowland lived to serve. His leadership strengthened our conference, and his compassion strengthened our people. He leaves behind a lasting legacy.”

News of Pastor Buck’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through the Louisville and Alcoa communities, where he was known for his warmth, generosity, and unshakable faith. Church members gathered Tuesday evening for an impromptu prayer vigil, lighting candles and sharing memories outside St. Mark’s.

“He loved people,” Rowe said simply. “That’s why this hurts so much. We’ve lost a good one.”

The Alcoa Police Department has not yet released further details about the semi-truck driver or whether any charges are expected. Funeral arrangements are being finalized by the Buck family and will be announced in the coming days.

“Please keep Sinda and the entire Buck family in your prayers,” church leaders said in a statement.