April 22 Deck Collapse on Little Tree Road in West Jefferson

Official Statement: April 22 Deck Collapse

Emergency services organizations responded to a reported deck collapse at 8 pm on April
22 at 580 Little Tree Road in West Jefferson. Upon arrival they discovered that a section of
the deck where individuals renting the Airbnb cabin were gathered to take a group
photograph had fallen. As a result, nine persons were transported by EMS, two of whom
were airlifted. There were no fatalities. We appreciate the quick response by our local
emergency services personnel to this incident.

At this time, the cause of accident is unknown, however, County Building and Inspections
staff are looking into the accident and consulting with the North Carolina Department of
Insurance (NCDOI). NC DOI and the Building Code Council are responsible for adoption of
the NC Building Code and local jurisdictions are responsible for enforcement of the State
Building Code. Ashe County is currently reviewing local files and permits for this structure
and will investigate as needed. Any additional findings will be shared with local media as
they become available.

Ashe County Administration
150 Government Cir, Suite 2500
Jefferson, NC 28640
336-846-5501