Wednesday, August 6’s collision at the intersection of the new US-79 bypass and Church Street in Atwood is the fourth crash there in 2025, and renewed calls for safety improvements among area residents.
According to a preliminary report from the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), William Dawson, 71, and Elizabeth Dawson, 70, of McKenzie were traveling east on the bypass in a 2018 Subaru Outlander when their vehicle collided with a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by Deborah McAlexander, 58, of Atwood.
Troopers said McAlexander had crossed the highway on Church Street and failed to yield to the Dawsons’ vehicle.
The two vehicles collided in the eastbound lane, and the Dawsons’ SUV was sent off the roadway, where it traveled more than 120 feet down a hillside before stopping near a dry creek bed.
All three individuals were injured and taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation.
McAlexander was cited for failure to yield.
Atwood Fire Department, McLemoresville Fire and Rescue, Carroll County Rescue Squad, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Baptist EMS, and other responders assisted at the scene.
Wednesday’s crash was the fourth at the intersection this year. In May, one of those collisions claimed a life.
According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation, Carroll County has recorded a total of 249 motor vehicle accidents so far in 2025. Twenty-three resulted in injuries, and three were fatal.
Residents have written letters to TDOT and spoke at town meetings about adding safety improvements along the bypass. Suggestions have included caution lights, lighted stop signs, and even lighting in general in the dark areas.
Thankfully my husband (age 71) and I (age 65, not 70!!) were not hospitalized after this accident. We are convinced that our Subaru Outback saved our lives. Many thanks to all those that aided us during this scary time.