Knoxville, TN (January 9, 2026) – Emergency personnel responded in the early morning hours of Thursday to a motor vehicle accident with injuries on I‑40 westbound near mile marker 379, just past the Paper Mill Rd area in Knoxville.
First responders, including EMS and fire crews, arrived to find a white Toyota Camry disabled in the number four travel lane and at least one additional vehicle on the right shoulder. Crews worked quickly to assess the scene and provide immediate care to the individuals involved.
The crash occurred at approximately 4:15 a.m., prompting multiple units to the scene due to reports of injuries and blocked lanes. EMS units were first observed attending to victims along the shoulder while firefighters operated in the travel lane where the sedan was positioned.
Two more vehicles were discovered further down the highway on the shoulder, prompting extended efforts by emergency teams to manage traffic and tend to those hurt in the multi-vehicle incident.
At this time, the exact number of individuals injured has not been confirmed. Responders coordinated to safely remove the vehicle from the active lane while ensuring that anyone suffering from injuries received prompt attention. The cause of the crash is under active investigation.
Our sincere thoughts are with those impacted by this collision, and we wish all injured parties a full and swift recovery.
