Tragic Crash Shuts Down I-40 Near Knoxville: Two Dead, Rescue Ongoing

KNOXVILLE, TN — June 30, 2025

A devastating multi-vehicle crash shut down Interstate 40 near the I-75 split in Knoxville Monday morning, leaving at least two people dead and triggering a massive emergency response that continues to unfold.

The crash occurred shortly after 11:00 a.m., according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), prompting the closure of both eastbound and westbound lanes. Video from TDOT’s SmartWay cameras showed traffic at a complete standstill as a Lifestar medical helicopter landed on the interstate to airlift a critically injured victim.

“This is a deadly crash,” confirmed the Loudon County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) in a public statement. “Lifestar has landed in the westbound lane to transport a patient. Westbound traffic is expected to reopen around 1:20 p.m.”

Eastbound lanes, however, remain closed with no clear estimate on reopening, as rescue crews work to extract at least one person still trapped in the wreckage.

Emergency crews from multiple agencies—including the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Loudon County Fire/Rescue, Priority Ambulance, and TDOT—responded to the scene. The Loudon County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that responders are “working diligently to free an entrapped victim.”

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined, and the identities of those killed have not been released, pending family notification. Authorities say a full investigation is underway and that more details will be released in the coming hours.

Motorists in the area are being urged to seek alternative routes and avoid I-40 near the I-75 interchange. Traffic remains heavily congested in both directions, with delays expected to last for several hours.

The tragic incident marks one of the most serious highway accidents in the region this year and has sent shockwaves through the East Tennessee community.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.