SEVIERVILLE — The City of Sevierville announced its decision to cancel the Sunday, Oct. 5, portion of the Slammedenuff car show, which had been scheduled at the Sevierville Convention Center. This cancellation follows numerous disturbances, significant safety concerns, and a notable strain on county-wide public resources, all directly related to activities surrounding the weekend’s event.
Pigeon Forge Police confirmed that a stabbing resulting in a minor injury was reported over the weekend. The victim of this incident declined ambulance transport. Police clarified that the stabbing did not occur near Jimmy's Market, a location where several videos depicting large crowds had been captured and were circulating online. The department also addressed and denied rumors of shots being fired and the use of tear gas for crowd control, stating these reports were unfounded.
Online video footage showed large crowds gathering on Saturday night at Jimmy's Market, with individuals seen pushing past barricades to access the property. Pigeon Forge Police had initially placed barricades around the business on Thursday evening in response to numerous calls to the location. On Saturday, Pigeon Forge Police reported that they had again cleared Jimmy's Market at the owner's request, due to the crowd becoming unmanageable.
In its statement regarding the decision to cancel the remainder of the car show, Sevierville officials highlighted the extensive impacts on the community. These impacts encompassed widespread traffic disruptions, reckless behavior, late-night noise, and substantial public safety challenges. The city stated that these issues had reached a level that was no longer acceptable or sustainable for the community. The city underscored its obligation to protect the safety, peace, and welfare of its residents, visitors, and businesses.
In response to the weekend's events, the city implemented a zero-tolerance policy specifically targeting any nuisance activity, unsafe driving, or disorderly conduct associated with the Slammedenuff event or similar gatherings. Officials warned that "Violations will be met with full enforcement" of all applicable laws and ordinances. Individuals currently in the area for the Slammedenuff event have been strongly urged by officials to vacate in an orderly and lawful manner.
The City of Sevierville further indicated that it would conduct a comprehensive review of the event’s overall impact. This review aims to reevaluate the future viability of the Slammedenuff event at the Sevierville Convention Center. Any potential continuation of this event in the future will depend entirely on significant and verifiable improvements in conduct and management, according to the city's statement. Sevierville officials expressed appreciation for the understanding of its residents, guests, and the business community as the city acts decisively to maintain safety, order, and the quality of life that Sevierville is known for.
