The Cocke County community is mourning the loss of two juveniles after a fatal traffic accident on Tuesday night. The crash occurred on Thinwood Drive near West Highway 25/70, as confirmed by the Cocke County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). Sheriff CJ Ball stated “We are all devastated for the families involved. Our community will come together for these families and do whatever we can to help them in this time of need. Everyone involved needs the prayers to lift them up during this tragedy that has taken place,” This sentiment was echoed in a statement provided to WATE.
At least one of the juveniles was a student attending Cocke County High School, adding a layer of grief to the school community. Details regarding the circumstances of the accident were not disclosed immediately, with investigations still underway by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. The local sheriff's office communicated via social media that the THP was called to investigate and alerted the public to expect delays in the area, as WVLT reported.
This tragic event has prompted responses from various local agencies. The Tennessee Department of Transportation registered substantial traffic disruptions Tuesday evening, with backlogs extending to near I-40 around 10 p.m. as a result of the crash. The CCSO had earlier responded to a serious crash on Thinwood Drive as revealed by the WBIR coverage of the incident.
In light of the tragedy, the Cocke County School System has offered its support to students and staff, suggesting an atmosphere in which grief counseling and support services might be readily available at the school. More information about the crash and the identities of the young victims will be provided as it becomes available through official channels.
