The Rhea County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee State Park Rangers, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and the 12th Judicial District Attorney’s office are investigating illegal waste dumping at the Soak Creek River section of the Piney River Resource Management Area. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available.

The Soak Creek River section, Lower Piney River section, and the entire Piney River Resource Management Area are closed due to contamination and vandalism.

A Facebook post from Tuesday that is quickly gaining traction alleges that a truck from “Chase’s Septic Service” was seen dumping sewage at the site, with the poster claiming the truck backed into the spot and emptied its contents, causing a strong odor. The poster disputes claims of brake issues and a full tank, supported by photos and a video.