18-Year-Old Heritage HS Football Player Zander Lewis Dies in Wildwood Road Car Accident
The beloved Maryville teen was remembered for his bright smile, kind heart, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
October 28, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 28, 2026
The Maryville community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old Zander Lewis, who tragically died Sunday night in a devastating car crash along Wildwood Road in Blount County.
According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene near Jameswood Drive around 10:15 p.m.
The crash report that the car, traveling west on Wildwood Road, veered off the roadway to the left, struck a concrete culvert, overturned in a driveway, and came to rest in a ditch after hitting a tree. The impact killed Lewis instantly.
Investigators noted that one of the vehicle’s wheels detached upon impact and rolled nearly 100 yards before hitting a witness’s vehicle, underscoring the force of the collision.
Lewis, a lifelong resident of Maryville, was remembered by friends and family as a radiant young man who brought joy to everyone around him.
His death has shaken those who knew him closely.
On social media, Teresa Garner Lewis, Zander’s mother, shared the heartbreaking news, writing,
“Please pray for our family. We lost Zander tonight in a car accident!”
The post quickly drew an outpouring of grief and support from the community.
Friends and neighbors flooded the comment section with condolences and prayers.
Many described Zander as someone who “never stopped smiling,” “lit up every room,” and “had a way of making everyone feel important.”
Emma Grace Davis, a close friend since elementary school, remembered him fondly:
“He was the life of the party, always smiling and waving at everyone. Zander made people feel like they were the only person in the world. He was a true, genuine person.”
Dozens of community members echoed similar sentiments. Katrina Weaver Burnett wrote,
“This is heartbreaking. We loved Zander — such a sweet kid.”
Another friend, Mandi Davis Warren, shared,
“He was a hardworking kid. His smile was contagious.”
Lewis, who worked at Food Lion, was known by coworkers as a respectful, caring, and cheerful young man.
One former colleague, Dahlila Dalton, said,
“He always had a smile on his face. A very caring, loving boy. Our prayers are with the family.”
As the investigation into the crash continues, the community remains united in grief and remembrance.
Heartfelt tributes continue to pour in, each one a reflection of the impact Zander made in his short life.
A candlelight vigil is expected to be organized later this week as friends, classmates, and loved ones gather to celebrate his life and offer prayers for his grieving family.
Zander Lewis’s untimely passing leaves behind a legacy of kindness, light, and love that will not be forgotten.
His friends say his memory will continue to shine through the many lives he touched.
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