The crash blocked the shoulder of I-40 at mile marker 399. Drivers were moving slowly through the area as crews responded, causing backups into Knoxville.
Officials said Damion Baskin, 22, allegedly pointed a handgun at the victim and fired at least one time. No one was struck or injured, according to KPD.
Crews said they found a tractor-trailer and a truck painting lines had collided head-on. One occupant was trapped, and emergency responders had to cut them out.