PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WVLT) – In a tragic turn of events, a man attending Pigeon Forge’s Rod Run event has died following a crash involving an electric scooter and an open car door. The Pigeon Forge Police Department (PFPD) confirmed that the incident occurred on Thursday near the intersection of Jake Thomas Road and the Parkway.
The victim, identified as 31-year-old Jeremy Hanes Jr. of Charlestown, Indiana, was riding his electric scooter along the Parkway, navigating the space between the white line and the sidewalk. According to police reports, the passenger of a stopped truck suddenly opened the vehicle’s door, causing Hanes to collide with it.
Emergency services swiftly transported Hanes to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries on Friday afternoon.
The incident has left the Pigeon Forge community and Rod Run event attendees in shock. The Rod Run, a popular car show and gathering for automotive enthusiasts, is typically a festive and lively event, drawing visitors from across the country. The unexpected accident has cast a somber shadow over this year’s festivities.
The PFPD has announced that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether any traffic violations or negligence contributed to the accident. Statements from witnesses and the truck’s occupants are being collected to piece together the sequence of events.
In the wake of the tragedy, there has been an outpouring of support and condolences for Jeremy Hanes Jr.’s family and friends. The Rod Run community, known for its camaraderie and shared passion for cars, is rallying together to offer support during this difficult time. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and solidarity, sharing memories and tributes to Hanes.
This incident also highlights the broader issue of road safety, particularly the interaction between vehicles and smaller, more vulnerable modes of transportation like scooters and bicycles. As electric scooters become increasingly popular for their convenience and eco-friendliness, the need for awareness and caution among all road users becomes even more critical.
Local authorities are urging event participants and visitors to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere to safety protocols to prevent further accidents. The PFPD is expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.
In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of a life cut tragically short. Jeremy Hanes Jr.’s untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can arise in everyday activities. As Pigeon Forge grapples with this heartbreaking event, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the Hanes family.
The Rod Run event will continue, but with a heightened sense of caution and a collective remembrance of the tragic loss that occurred. Authorities are likely to implement additional safety measures to ensure such a devastating incident does not happen again in the future.
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