John Cena's ride was the lead dog in a 3-way chain reaction crash in Philadelphia this morning ... and TMZ has the first photos from the smash site.
WWE.com broke the story ... Cena was leaving a media appearance ... when his SUV was rocked from behind by another car.
Now, we've learned ... Cena's ride was hit by a small Honda Civic ... which was ALSO hit from behind by a massive big rig.
As we previously reported, Cena didn't appear to be seriously injured ... but plans to visit with doctors as soon as he arrives to the arena for Monday Night Raw.