The Junaluska Fire Department in Haywood County reported over the weekend that a person had to be rescued after they drove around a “Road Closed” sign on Interstate 40, which was severely damaged by Helene. The vehicle and its driver ended up stranded in a large hole in the road near the Pigeon River.
More than 40 miles of I-40 have been closed at the border. It was announced last week that the interstate could be reopened by 2025.
“We want to remind Haywood County travelers that the large orange and white “Road Closed” signage and concrete barriers are there for a reason, and one of those reasons isn’t to drive around them,” the Junaluska Fire Department posted on Facebook.
The post stated that the vehicle was reported shortly after 8 p.m., near the 3.5 mile marker on I-40 East. Authorities said that “a few travelers” were involved and were “very fortunate to be alive.”
An official press release released later on Nov. 10 from the fire department stated that there was a single occupant in the car which had fallen about 100 feet from the road.
The press release did not share the extent of injuries or the condition of the driver. NC Highway Patrol is investigating the incident.
WLOS reported that the driver died from their injuries, according to NC Highway Patrol. The driver has not been identified at this time.
Haywood Sheriff’s Office reminded tourists and drivers to follow road signs.
“DO NOT drive around barricades! This is extremely dangerous and poses a risk not only to the drivers but also to first responders,” the sheriff's office said on Facebook.
The Junaluska Fire Department and Grassy Fork Fire and Rescue used a rope system to rescue the person in the vehicle.
The fire department confirmed that no emergency services personnel were injured in the rescue mission.
Cocke County Swiftwater Rescue also responded to the scene because of concerns that the vehicle might have ended up in the water.
Local and state agencies Haywood EMS, Priority Ambulance Service, NC Highway Patrol, and NCDOT were all also called to help with the incident as well as local Rabbitskin Towing.
