Sparta, TN (September 16, 2025) – A devastating three-vehicle collision on State Route 111 in White County claimed the lives of four people and left numerous others injured late Monday afternoon, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).
The crash occurred around 5:30 p.m. near the O’Connor Rd exit and involved a white Dodge Durango, a GMC Yukon, and a Ford Econoline van carrying 15 occupants. THP investigators stated that the Dodge Durango, traveling north in the left lane, crossed the center line and sideswiped the GMC Yukon. The Durango then lost control, crossed the median, and crashed head-on into the southbound Ford van.
The impact of the crash was catastrophic. The driver of the Durango, 22-year-old Braden Chaphe, was killed. His 2-year-old passenger sustained injuries; however, the child’s condition remains unknown. The GMC Yukon driver was not hurt in the collision.
Tragically, the head-on crash also claimed the lives of three people inside the Ford van. The driver, 76-year-old Stanley Stewart, and two passengers—29-year-old Bethany Beachy and 2-year-old Andrew Beachy—died at the scene. All remaining passengers in the van, ranging in age from 30 years to 7 months, sustained injuries and were transported for treatment. Authorities noted that the van’s occupants appear to be members of the same family.
Following the crash, both northbound and southbound lanes of SR-111 near the 15-mile marker were shut down for several hours as investigators worked to reconstruct the scene and determine contributing factors.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy and hope for healing and recovery for all who were injured.
Fatal Accidents in Tennessee
The deadly crash on State Route 111 brings renewed attention to the dangers of highway travel in Tennessee, particularly on high-speed corridors with limited barriers between directions of traffic. The stretch of SR-111 near O’Connor Rd is a heavily traveled regional route, connecting rural and suburban communities with few median protections in certain areas—making crossover crashes especially hazardous.
Crossover collisions, such as the one that occurred Monday evening, often result in severe outcomes due to the force of impact from opposing directions. These crashes can be triggered by a variety of factors, including loss of control, driver distraction, fatigue, or sudden mechanical issues. In this case, the initial sideswipe between the Durango and the Yukon appears to have set off a tragic chain reaction.
This accident also underscores the vulnerability of passengers in large-capacity vehicles like vans, which are often used by extended families or community groups. Despite being widely used for group travel, such vehicles may lack advanced safety protections for all occupants, particularly young children.
In rural counties like White County, emergency response can be challenged by distance, terrain, and resource availability. Quick access to trauma care, child-specific medical treatment, and transportation for multiple victims can be a significant hurdle. That’s why understanding your rights, available services, and recovery resources is essential following a major crash.
Survivors of serious collisions often face a long road ahead—physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether it’s navigating medical care, coping with grief, or seeking legal clarity, families need structured, compassionate support. Incidents like this are a stark reminder of how quickly lives can change, and how vital community resources are during times of crisis.
If your family has been impacted by a highway accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Understanding what steps to take—whether for medical help, financial support, or guidance through the recovery process—can make all the difference.
Overwhelmed after a crash like the one on SR-111? Local Accident Reports is here to guide families through the chaos. From support options and survivor resources to referrals and next-step planning, we help injured victims and grieving families move forward with confidence. Connect with us today to access the compassionate assistance you deserve.
