Serious Multi-Vehicle Crash in Downtown Gatlinburg Injures Six; Medical Emergency Suspected as Cause
GATLINBURG, TN — A serene Sunday afternoon in downtown Gatlinburg turned into chaos after a multi-vehicle crash involving pedestrians left at least six people injured and prompted a large-scale emergency response. The incident occurred at approximately 4:14 p.m. on Sunday, June 2, 2025, in the 700 block of Parkway, a high-traffic area between traffic lights No. 6 and No. 8 that’s often bustling with tourists and locals.
According to the Gatlinburg Police Department (GPD), the collision was triggered when a driver, while operating a vehicle along Parkway, suffered a sudden medical emergency. As a result, the vehicle veered out of control, striking multiple other vehicles and pedestrians on the crowded street.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including GPD, the Gatlinburg Fire Department, and Sevier County EMS, rushed to the scene, which was quickly declared a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) due to the number of people involved and the scale of injuries.
Victims and Injuries
At least six individuals sustained injuries in the crash. Among the injured were several pedestrians, who were reportedly struck as the out-of-control vehicle mounted the curb or was pushed toward the sidewalks after colliding with other cars.
Some of the victims were transported by ambulance to LeConte Medical Center in Sevierville, while others were treated at the scene. Their identities and the extent of their injuries have not yet been publicly released, but at least one person is believed to be in serious condition.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the driver who suffered the medical emergency survived or was among those hospitalized. Investigators are continuing to evaluate that individual’s medical condition and how it may have led to the incident.
Mass Casualty Declaration and Response
The MCI declaration was issued to ensure that emergency services could be appropriately coordinated and that all injured parties received timely care. The Parkway was temporarily closed between the affected traffic lights as responders secured the area, attended to victims, and initiated a thorough investigation.
The crash occurred in one of the busiest sections of downtown Gatlinburg, a prime tourist corridor lined with shops, attractions, and restaurants. Witnesses described a harrowing scene of confusion and panic as the vehicle barreled through the area.
“It was terrifying,” said one bystander who was shopping nearby. “People were screaming and running. You could hear the crash and see people trying to help the injured right away.”
Ongoing Investigation
Gatlinburg Police and accident reconstruction experts are working to piece together the chain of events that led to the crash. While initial findings suggest a medical emergency caused the driver to lose control, officials are not ruling out other contributing factors, including vehicle malfunction or traffic conditions at the time.
“This appears to be an unintentional tragedy stemming from a health-related incident behind the wheel,” said a GPD spokesperson. “However, we are conducting a full investigation to ensure that we understand exactly what occurred.”
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or captured it on dashcams or cell phones to share footage with investigators. Anyone with information can contact the Gatlinburg Police Department directly.
Public Safety and Road Closure Update
In the hours following the crash, traffic in the downtown area was heavily impacted, and authorities urged the public to avoid the 700 block of Parkway while cleanup and investigation continued. The roadway was reopened late Sunday evening after debris was cleared and the scene deemed safe.
Community Support
As news of the crash spread, many in the Gatlinburg community expressed concern and support for those injured. Local businesses offered aid to emergency personnel, and some onlookers reportedly provided immediate assistance to victims before paramedics arrived.
Local officials commended the swift response of first responders, crediting them with preventing further harm in an otherwise chaotic scene.
Summary of Key Facts:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date/Time | Sunday, June 2, 2025, at 4:14 p.m. |
| Location | 700 block of Parkway, between Lights 6 and 8 |
| Cause | Suspected medical emergency involving driver |
| Vehicles Involved | Multiple |
| Injuries | At least six, including pedestrians |
| MCI Declared | Yes |
| Emergency Response | GPD, Gatlinburg Fire, Sevier Co. EMS |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
As the investigation unfolds, the people of Gatlinburg remain united in support of the victims and their families. Authorities will release additional details as they become available. Meanwhile, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a routine day can take a tragic turn — even in the heart of a picturesque mountain town.