HEARTFELT: Terrible thing unvaled in the car-train collision on October 18, 1965 resulting in the deaths of three Tennessee Volunteers assistant football coaches, Bill Majors, Bob Jones, and Charlie Rash, at an intersection in Knoxville.

On the morning of October 18, 1965, a devastating accident occurred in Knoxville, Tennessee, resulting in the deaths of three assistant football coaches from the University of Tennessee Volunteers. Bill Majors, Bob Jones, and Charlie Rash were traveling together in a Volkswagen Beetle when their vehicle was struck by a Knoxville-bound passenger train at the Cessna Road and Westland Drive railroad crossing. The impact was catastrophic, with the car being thrown nearly 100 feet down the tracks. Majors and Jones were killed instantly, while Rash succumbed to his injuries four days later at Presbyterian Hospital.

The tragic event cast a long shadow over the University of Tennessee community. Head coach Doug Dickey and university president Dr. Andy Holt were among those who delivered the heartbreaking news to the families. The loss was felt deeply, not only by the families and friends of the coaches but also by the players and fans who admired them. In the wake of the tragedy, the Volunteers’ football team, under Coach Dickey’s leadership, chose to honor the memory of their fallen colleagues by continuing with the season, embodying resilience and dedication. The team went on to have a successful season, a testament to the spirit and determination instilled by the coaches. ​

In the years following the accident, the railroad crossing where the incident occurred remained a somber reminder of the tragedy. For decades, the site lacked adequate safety measures. However, in recent years, the city of Knoxville has taken steps to improve safety at the crossing. In 2023, the city installed new signage and street markings at the Cessna Road and Westland Drive intersection to enhance visibility and alert drivers to the presence of the railroad tracks. Despite these improvements, the crossing still lacks a crossing gate, which has raised concerns among residents and officials. ​es on through various memorials and tributes. A plaque honoring the three coaches was unveiled in 2015 at the University of Tennessee’s Neyland-Thompson Sports Complex, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

As we reflect on this tragic event, we remember the lives of these dedicated coaches and the profound impact they had on the University of Tennessee and its community. Their commitment to the sport and to the development of young athletes serves as a lasting example of leadership and passion.