Fatal Truck Accident Rocks Maggie Valley – 3 Dead in Catastrophic Collision
Maggie Valley, NC – June 18, 2025 — A devastating truck accident in Maggie Valley claimed the lives of three people late Tuesday afternoon, leaving the small mountain community in shock and mourning.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. on U.S. Highway 19 near Soco Road, a stretch known for its sharp curves and heavy traffic. A fully loaded semi-truck traveling downhill reportedly lost control and collided with two passenger vehicles. The impact was so severe that all three occupants of one of the vehicles were pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency responders from Haywood County, along with the North Carolina Highway Patrol, arrived swiftly. The area was closed to traffic for several hours as crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigators began piecing together the sequence of events.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with one local saying the sound of the crash was “like an explosion.” Preliminary investigations suggest brake failure may have contributed to the truck driver’s inability to stop. Toxicology tests and vehicle inspections are pending.
The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending family notification. The truck driver, who survived the crash with non-life-threatening injuries, is cooperating with investigators.
Local officials expressed condolences to the families affected, with Mayor Mike Matthews calling it “a tragic day for our community.”
Residents and visitors are urged to drive cautiously, particularly along the mountainous routes where commercial trucks frequently travel.
This latest tragedy underscores ongoing concerns about traffic safety in the region. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has pledged to review the area for possible safety improvements.
More information will be released as the investigation continues. A memorial is being planned by community members to honor the victims.
