Nashville Sees Deadly I-24 Crash and Riverfront Festival Amid Unseasonable Heat

NASHVILLE, Sept. 13, 2025 - A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 24 south of downtown left one person dead early Saturday, even as thousands gathered for Wine on the River along the Cumberland amid record warmth.

Nut Graf: The tragic overnight crash underscores growing concerns over highway safety in Music City, while the 23rd annual Wine on the River drew a festive crowd to Riverfront Park as temperatures climbed into the low 90s.

Fatal I-24 Crash Shuts Down Key Artery

  • Shortly before 1:30 a.m., Metro police and fire units responded to reports of a collision involving three vehicles on I-24 eastbound near Elm Hill Pike.
  • One occupant was pronounced dead at the scene; two others sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
  • Eastbound lanes remained closed for nearly four hours during the investigation and cleanup, prompting lengthy delays for early-morning commuters.

Wine on the River Draws Thousands

  • From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Riverfront Park hosted the city’s largest wine and spirits tasting festival.
  • Over 100 wineries, breweries, and distilleries offered samples along the Cumberland, with live music and food vendors onsite.
  • Proceeds benefited the District and 2nd Ave Strong, a nonprofit aiding survivors of last December’s downtown explosion.

Scorching Temperatures Add to Summer Feel

  • Despite mid-September on the calendar, Nashville registered a high of 92°F under clear skies.
  • National Weather Service meteorologists attributed the heat to a stalled high-pressure ridge over the Southeast.
  • Officials urged residents at outdoor events to stay hydrated and seek shade.

Looking Ahead

  • Traffic on I-24 is expected to normalize by tonight, though motorists should anticipate ongoing construction on nearby ramps.
  • Sunday brings a chance of isolated showers north of I-40 but continued warm highs approaching 93°F.
  • The Tennessee Titans kick off their home opener at Nissan Stadium tomorrow amid similar heat warnings.