A devastating multi-vehicle collision occurred Sunday afternoon in downtown Gatlinburg, leaving six individuals hospitalized and the community reeling. The crash took place around 4:15 p.m. in the 700 block of Parkway, a busy area popular with both residents and tourists.
According to the Gatlinburg Police Department, the collision involved five vehicles and resulted in injuries to at least two pedestrians. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene. Three victims were airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, while the remaining three were transported by ambulance to local hospitals.
The incident prompted a significant emergency response and led to major traffic disruptions. Parkway was closed for several hours as law enforcement conducted a thorough investigation.
Preliminary reports suggest that a medical emergency may have played a role in the crash. Eyewitnesses and social media accounts have indicated that one of the drivers may have experienced a seizure, potentially causing the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably. However, these claims have not been officially confirmed. The Tennessee Highway Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident.
The crash has had a profound impact on the Gatlinburg community, a town known for its strong sense of community and its vital tourism economy. Local leaders have expressed their condolences to those affected and are asking the public to refrain from speculation while official investigations continue.
“Our hearts go out to everyone involved in this tragic event,” said a city official. “We ask for patience and unity as the facts are gathered.”
In the wake of the accident, community members have begun rallying together, offering support and prayers for the victims and their families. As authorities work to uncover what happened, hope remains high for the swift recovery of those injured and for steps to be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future
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