MEMPHIS, Shelby County, Tenn., Oct. 21, 2026 — Four people were hurt early on Tuesday morning, October 20, when a car struck a light pole in East Memphis, according to the Memphis Police Department. Three of the four injured were reportedly teenagers.
Officers responded around 1 a.m. to the area of Perkins Extended near Shady Grove, where they found a vehicle that had crashed into a light pole. It was not immediately clear what led up to the crash, and MPD has not released a cause.
Among the injured were two 14-year-olds, a boy and a girl, and a 16-year-old girl. A fourth person was also hurt, though MPD did not release that person's age. Investigators said one of the four suffered serious injuries, while the other three were expected to recover.
No further details on the vehicle, the driver, or the circumstances of the crash had been released as of Tuesday. The investigation reportedly remains open.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Memphis, TN
This crash happened in Memphis, TN. We cover crashes across Shelby County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Shelby County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most traffic accidents happen?
A large share of crashes occur on local roads and intersections close to home, often at moderate speeds, rather than on highways.
What can drivers do to stay safer on the road?
Slowing down for conditions, staying alert for distractions, and keeping a safe following distance all reduce the risk of losing control of a vehicle.
What injuries are common after a car strikes a fixed object like a pole?
Head, neck, and chest injuries are common in these crashes, along with broken bones, since the vehicle stops suddenly on impact.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Memphis, TN
If you're involved in a crash like this one, start by checking yourself and any passengers for injuries, even ones that don't hurt right away. Adrenaline can mask pain from a head or neck injury for hours. Call 911 so officers and paramedics can document the scene and get anyone hurt to a hospital.
Once everyone is safe, take photos of the vehicle, the road, and anything the car may have struck, and get the names of any witnesses nearby. Follow up with your own doctor in the days afterward even if you were told you're fine at the scene. Some injuries, especially to the head or spine, show symptoms later. Keep a copy of the police report for your records once it's available from MPD.
