PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Pigeon Forge Police Department reported to 6 News that the number of arrests and citations during the Fall Rod Run car show was significantly higher than last year, with double the arrests recorded.
The event took place from September 12 to 14. According to Police Chief Richard Catlett, there were 85 arrests and 862 citations issued during this year’s Fall Rod Run.
Additionally, one officer was injured after being struck while riding a motorcycle in Pigeon Forge. Police Chief Catlett reported that the officer will be fine, though he has some minor injuries.
The Rod Run event occurs twice a year, in spring and fall. Last year’s Fall Rod Run saw only 44 arrests and 249 citations issued.
During the Spring 2024 Rod Run, there were 36 arrests and 623 citations. Tragically, an attendee died after colliding with a vehicle door while riding a scooter near the intersection of Parkway and Jake Thomas Road.
To improve safety on Sevier County roads, the county is seeking public input. Changes at the 2024 Fall Rod Run left some attendees unhappy, as a new city ordinance now requires vehicles parked on the roadside to have current registration and prohibits vehicles displaying advertising or “for sale” signs.
