Nashville, TN (November 25, 2024) – A 23-year-old man, Ricky Washington Jr., is in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle on Friday night following a hit-and-run incident in Nashville. The accident unfolded after Washington fled the scene of an earlier crash on Briley Parkway, near the Opryland Hotel.
According to Metro Nashville Police, Washington was involved in a single-car crash on Briley Parkway, which caused his vehicle to come to a stop on Opryland Hotel property. When officers arrived, Washington allegedly fled the scene on foot. Despite attempts by an officer to use a Taser to stop him, Washington continued running, hindered by his heavy coat, police reported.
As Washington jumped over a guardrail and ran toward the Briley Parkway south exit ramp, he was struck by a Dodge Challenger. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and Washington was transported to Skyline Medical Center in critical condition.
At the time of the crash, Washington was serving a three-year supervised probation for prior convictions, including reckless endangerment and marijuana-related charges in September 2023.
While the driver of the Dodge Challenger, who was not identified, is not facing charges related to the collision with Washington, he is facing charges of marijuana possession and carrying a firearm without a permit. Authorities discovered a backpack in the vehicle containing approximately ¾ pound of marijuana, along with a pistol in the driver’s waistband.
The investigation into the events surrounding this crash continues, and more details may emerge as authorities work to understand the circumstances leading to Washington’s injuries.
Pedestrian Accidents in Tennessee
This incident is a reminder of the dangers that pedestrians face when attempting to cross roadways unexpectedly. According to traffic safety experts, collisions between vehicles and pedestrians are often the result of sudden movements or actions that drivers cannot anticipate. Nashville has seen an uptick in pedestrian-related accidents, which have led to life-threatening injuries in some cases.
For pedestrians, safety remains a priority. Avoid running on or near roadways, and always be aware of your surroundings to reduce the risk of accidents. Drivers are also urged to stay vigilant and follow traffic laws to ensure everyone’s safety.