BLOUNT, TN, (May 19, 2026) – A motorcycle crash Tuesday morning along the famed Tail of the Dragon roadway in Blount County claimed the lives of two people, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).
Authorities said a Harley-Davidson tricycle traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 129 lost control while navigating a curve near mile marker 5 at approximately 11:49 a.m.
Investigators reported that the motorcycle struck an embankment after leaving the roadway.
A passenger on the motorcycle, identified as 55-year-old Mariano Maldondo of Florida, tragically died in the crash. The 59-year-old operator of the Harley-Davidson was also fatally injured, officials said.
THP continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly wreck.
