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Authorities are continuing to investigate a single-vehicle crash involving a Ringgold resident that occurred late Sunday morning along Dry Fork Road, prompting an emergency response and temporary traffic disruptions in the area.
According to preliminary reports, the accident happened at approximately 11:12 a.m. on May 24, 2026, east of Mill Road. Officials confirmed that the crash involved a Dodge Charger driven by 48-year-old Mary Bernard Shelton of Ringgold. Emergency responders were dispatched quickly after receiving reports of a vehicle leaving the roadway under unclear circumstances.
When first responders arrived at the scene, they discovered the Dodge Charger with significant damage consistent with a roadway departure and possible loss-of-control incident. Emergency crews immediately secured the area while assessing the condition of the driver and ensuring the safety of motorists traveling through the affected portion of Dry Fork Road.
Authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding Shelton’s condition following the crash. Officials stated that updates concerning injuries or medical treatment may become available after proper notification procedures are completed and investigators finalize their preliminary findings.
Investigators say the exact circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear at this time. Early reports indicate the vehicle left its intended path for reasons still under investigation. Law enforcement officials are currently examining several possible contributing factors, including roadway conditions, speed, distraction, mechanical failure, or the possibility of a medical emergency.
The Dodge Charger reportedly sustained extensive damage during the incident. Crash investigators and reconstruction specialists are expected to analyze physical evidence from the scene, including tire marks, vehicle positioning, and roadway conditions, to determine how the crash unfolded and what may have caused the driver to lose control.
Emergency crews remained on scene for an extended period as authorities documented evidence and worked to clear the roadway. Traffic in the surrounding area experienced temporary delays while responders managed the crash scene and ensured the roadway was safe for reopening.
Witnesses near Dry Fork Road reported seeing multiple emergency vehicles responding shortly after the incident occurred. Some motorists described slowed traffic and brief detours as officials redirected vehicles around the affected section of roadway during the investigation.
At this time, authorities have confirmed that no other vehicles appear to have been involved in the crash. Investigators continue treating the incident as a single-vehicle accident while conducting a comprehensive review of all available evidence.
Officials say investigations involving roadway departures often require detailed reconstruction efforts to determine whether environmental conditions, road design, visibility, or driver-related issues played a role in the incident. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities as they continue gathering information.
Residents familiar with Dry Fork Road noted that the area can present driving challenges depending on traffic flow, weather conditions, and visibility. Community members have expressed concern following news of the accident, particularly given the road’s frequent use by local drivers.
Law enforcement officials are asking anyone who may have witnessed the Dodge Charger traveling along Dry Fork Road prior to the crash to contact investigators. Authorities believe even minor observations could help establish a clearer timeline leading up to the accident.
As the investigation continues, additional updates are expected once officials complete a full assessment of the crash involving Mary Bernard Shelton on Dry Fork Road east of Mill Road.
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