Chattanooga, TN (October 6, 2025) – Chattanooga police arrested a man after a deadly DUI crash that killed one pedestrian and left another with severe injuries on Sunday night, October 5. 

According to investigators, a Jeep Wrangler had run out of gas and stopped on Gunbarrel Road with its hazard lights on. The driver and passenger were outside the vehicle, attempting to refuel it, when tragedy struck.

Police said John Boyd, driving a Dodge 1500, crashed into both pedestrians before colliding with the Jeep. A 27-year-old man died at the scene, while a 27-year-old woman suffered severe traumatic injuries and was rushed to the hospital. Two juveniles riding inside the Dodge also required medical care and were taken to the hospital.

Officers reported that Boyd admitted to drinking alcohol and smoking marijuana before the crash. He told police he had consumed two shots of Fireball and smoked marijuana earlier in the evening. Afterward, he took his family to Miller's Ale House, where he drank a 22-ounce Blue Moon beer.

Police administered a field sobriety test, which Boyd failed. Inside the Dodge, officers found two empty Fireball bottles, two full bottles, and a small amount of marijuana shake under the center console. Authorities transported Boyd to Hamilton County Jail, where they collected his blood alcohol level.

Boyd now faces multiple charges, including DUI, Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Assault, two counts of Child Endangerment, and other offenses. Chattanooga Police stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and details may change.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who lost his life and also hope for the full recovery of the injured woman and children.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Tennessee

Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating collisions on Tennessee roads. Impaired drivers not only endanger themselves but also put innocent lives at risk, as seen in this tragic crash. These incidents often result in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death, leaving families with overwhelming grief and financial hardship.

Drunk driving crashes frequently cause:

• Severe head and brain injuries that may lead to long-term disabilities or death.
• Broken bones and internal trauma requiring emergency surgery and extended hospital stays.
• Fatal injuries that leave families pursuing wrongful death claims to seek justice.

When victims suffer due to impaired drivers, they may have the right to pursue legal action through a wrongful death claim. Working with an experienced wrongful death attorney ensures victims and their families understand their options under Tennessee law. Claims can provide compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses in fatal cases.

At DZ Law, we know how devastating drunk driving accidents are for victims and families in Chattanooga and across Tennessee. Our team of experienced attorneys will fight for justice and help you recover the compensation you deserve. 

If you have suddenly lost a beloved family member due to a drunk driver, contact DZ Law today at (865) 259-0020 for a free consultation. We are here to stand by your side and guide you through this difficult time. 

Notes: This post was compiled using information from secondary sources, including but not limited to local news outlets, state and local police reports, social media, and eyewitness accounts related to serious accidents in Eastern Tennessee. While DZ Law strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we have not independently verified all details of this incident. If you believe any information in this post is inaccurate, please contact us immediately so we can make corrections and ensure accuracy. Additionally, we are happy to honor requests to remove this post if necessary.

Disclaimers: This accident update is provided solely for informational purposes and is not intended as a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately. Please note that the content in this post should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Additionally, the image accompanying this post is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual scene of the accident described.