Gatlinburg: A serious multi-vehicle crash in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee on Sunday afternoon left six people injured, including three who were airlifted to a regional trauma center. The collision took place around 4:14 p.m. in the 700 block of Parkway, between traffic lights 6 and 8, according to city officials.
The Gatlinburg Police Department (GPD) confirmed that the crash involved five vehicles. Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, and Lifestar helicopters transported three victims with serious injuries to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. The other three were taken to local hospitals via ambulance.
Authorities from both the GPD and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) are conducting a full investigation into the cause of the accident.
Witness Claims Unconfirmed
While the official cause of the crash has not yet been released, a social media post circulating online alleged that a driver suffered a medical emergency, possibly a seizure, and unintentionally pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake. However, police have not confirmed this report, and investigators are urging the public to wait for verified information.
Videos Show Significant Damage
Footage posted on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) shows multiple heavily damaged vehicles and emergency personnel working at the scene. Traffic in the area was significantly impacted for hours, with road closures and delays affecting one of Gatlinburg’s busiest corridors.