A father is planning to take legal action following a tragic accident that claimed the life of his son during the Rod Run scooter event in Pigeon Forge

The young man, identified as 20-year-old Jake Thompson, was participating in the festivities when the accident happened. Witnesses reported that he was riding his scooter along the crowded streets when he collided with a vehicle that was also part of the Rod Run activities. Despite immediate medical attention, Thompson succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and friends in shock.

In the wake of the tragedy, Jake’s father, Michael Thompson, has expressed his outrage and grief. He believes that the event organizers failed to implement adequate safety measures to protect participants and attendees. “This should have been a celebration, not a day of mourning,” he stated. “There were too many vehicles and not enough control. My son’s life could have been saved if proper precautions had been taken.”

Michael plans to file a lawsuit against the event organizers, citing negligence and a lack of appropriate safety protocols. He argues that the Rod Run, which attracts thousands of visitors each year, should have stricter guidelines in place to ensure the safety of all participants. “They need to be held accountable for what happened,” he said. “No parent should have to bury their child because of reckless planning.”

The Rod Run event has been a staple in Pigeon Forge for over three decades, drawing car enthusiasts and spectators from all over the country. While the festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere and community spirit, this tragic incident has cast a shadow over the event. Local officials have stated that they are reviewing safety procedures for future gatherings to prevent similar accidents.

In response to the incident, Pigeon Forge Mayor, Robert McGill, expressed condolences to the Thompson family and emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring safety at public events. “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” he said. “We will work closely with event organizers to assess and improve safety measures, as the wellbeing of our citizens and visitors is our top priority.”

As the investigation continues, many in the community are rallying around the Thompson family, offering support and sharing memories of Jake, who was described as a bright and adventurous young man with a passion for life. Friends and family have set up a memorial fund in his name, hoping to raise awareness about scooter safety and the importance of protective measures at large events.

The upcoming legal proceedings may serve as a pivotal moment in addressing safety concerns at large-scale events in Pigeon Forge. For Michael Thompson, it’s a fight for justice for his son and a push for change to prevent future tragedies. “I want to make sure no other family has to go through this pain,” he said, determined to honor Jake’s memory through action.