Four people have died following a major car crash in White County, Tennessee. The Tennessee Highway Patrol reported that 18 people were involved in the wreck, which occurred around 5:30 p.m. on a Monday afternoon. Both northbound and southbound lanes of State Route 111 are closed as emergency crews and investigators manage the scene. 

The crash took place near the O’Connor exit on State Route 111. A white Dodge Durango carrying two people was traveling north in the left lane when it drifted over the center line and sideswiped a GMC Yukon, which had one occupant. After striking the Yukon, the Durango lost control. 

Once the Durango lost control it crossed the median into the southbound lanes and collided head-on with a Ford Econoline van. There were fifteen people in the van at the time of the collision. 

As of Monday evening the THP confirmed four fatalities. Authorities urged drivers to avoid the area and to use alternate routes while the investigation continues. Northbound and southbound lanes on State Route 111 at the 15-mile marker remain closed.