BEAN STATION, Grainger County, Tenn., Nov. 10, 2026 — Two people died on Saturday afternoon, November 7, following a head-on crash on Highway 11W near First Baptist Church Bean Station, according to a preliminary report from the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
The report said a car heading south on Highway 11W crossed into the path of a northbound SUV around 12:15 p.m. Both drivers swerved in an apparent attempt to avoid each other, and the vehicles collided head-on. The driver of the southbound car, identified by THP as 59-year-old Larry T. Collins, and his passenger, 53-year-old Stella M. Ogan, both of Tennessee, were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the SUV was not injured.
The crash remains under investigation by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Our sympathies are with the families of everyone who lost their lives.
More Crash News from Grainger County
This crash happened on Highway 11W in Bean Station, TN. For other recent crashes near Bean Station, TN, visit our Grainger County accident news page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is distracted driving considered so risky?
Taking eyes or attention off the road for even a few seconds can prevent a driver from reacting in time to a vehicle drifting into their lane or stopping suddenly, which can turn a routine drive into a serious crash.
How do weather and road conditions play into crashes like this?
Wet pavement, glare, fog or debris can reduce traction and visibility, making it harder for drivers to correct course if a vehicle swerves or crosses the center line.
Where do most traffic crashes tend to happen?
Crashes are common on two-lane highways and at points where traffic crosses or merges, especially where speeds are higher and there is little separation between opposing lanes.
