The city of Sevierville has ended its relationship with the Slammedenuff car show after last weekend’s event, which drew an estimated quarter of a million attendees, led to what officials described as an unmanageable situation for the city.
Mayor Announces the Ban
Mayor Robbie Fox announced during Monday’s city meeting that the event, which had been hosted at the Sevierville Convention Center for several years, will no longer be invited back. Residents in attendance applauded the announcement, citing frustrations over traffic congestion, public disturbances, and safety concerns from the event.
“The crowds and behavior this weekend were not what we want for our city,” Fox said. “It placed an enormous strain on our police, fire, and emergency resources.”
Caffeine and Octane Lanier Raceway in Georgia Has Officially Been Sold
Arrests and Citations During the Event
According to the Sevierville Police Department, officers made 30 arrests and issued 118 citations over the two-day event. City officials ultimately canceled the event’s second day, citing “numerous disturbances, safety concerns, and a significant strain on county-wide public resources.”
Neighboring City Called In to Assist
Pigeon Forge police reported being called to assist multiple times throughout the weekend, responding to at least 58 calls involving local businesses, including Jimmy’s Market, where an unsanctioned car meet spread into surrounding parking lots. “The management called several times for us to clear their lot after they invited them there,” police said in a statement. The business later clarified through its attorney that staff had requested police intervention after the gathering “rapidly escalated beyond safe capacity.”
No Weapons or Chemical Agents Used
Authorities confirmed that no shots were fired and no chemical agents were used during the event, though they described the scene as involving large, unruly crowds that required a coordinated response from multiple law enforcement agencies.
City’s Final Decision
Despite the event’s popularity among car enthusiasts, Mayor Fox said the risks to public safety outweighed its benefits for the city. “We welcome events that reflect well on Sevierville,” Fox said, “but this one will not return.”