Beloved Ooltewah Woman Killed in Pigeon Forge Pedestrian Tragedy
PIGEON FORGE, TN – A quiet evening in Pigeon Forge turned tragic when 58-year-old Daisy Valenzuela Vines lost her life after being struck by a vehicle at the busy intersection of U.S. 441 and Dollywood Lane. The Pigeon Forge Police Department confirmed that the fatal collision occurred around 6 p.m. on Friday, August 8, leaving family, friends, and her Ooltewah community reeling from the sudden loss.
Authorities reported that Ms. Vines was crossing the street when the incident occurred. Despite the rapid arrival of emergency personnel, her injuries were severe, and she was airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Sadly, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away shortly after.
A Life Remembered: Daisy’s Kindness and Grace
Those who knew Daisy Valenzuela Vines describe her as a woman whose warmth and compassion left lasting imprints on every heart she touched. Friends recall her as someone who greeted life with quiet strength, a gentle smile, and a giving spirit. Whether she was sharing stories, helping a neighbor, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, Daisy brought comfort and joy to those around her.
Her death has left a deep void in Ooltewah. Neighbors speak of her generosity, her love for community, and her willingness to help anyone in need. “Daisy was one of the kindest souls you could ever meet,” a family friend said. “It’s hard to imagine our world without her light.”
In the days following the tragedy, tributes have begun to pour in on social media. Friends and relatives are posting memories, photographs, and heartfelt messages — reminders of a life that, though cut short, was full of love, connection, and purpose.
Investigation Continues as Community Seeks Closure
Police identified the driver involved as 18-year-old Bryson Cooper of Kodak, Tennessee. Officials confirmed that Cooper remained at the scene, cooperated fully with investigators, and provided a statement about the moments leading up to the crash. The Pigeon Forge Police Department is conducting a detailed investigation to determine the exact circumstances, with Chief Richard Catlett indicating that preliminary findings should be complete by Wednesday.
Once the investigation is finalized, the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review. While the legal process moves forward, friends and family are left grappling with grief and unanswered questions.
For many, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety on busy roads. But beyond the circumstances of her passing, those who loved Daisy are determined to ensure her memory is honored — remembering her not for how she died, but for how she lived: with kindness, dignity, and an open heart.
As the sun sets over the Smoky Mountains, candles will be lit in her honor, each flicker a testament to a life well-lived and a spirit that will never be forgotten.
