A pedestrian was killed early Saturday after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 386, also known as Vietnam Veterans Boulevard, in Hendersonville, authorities said. The preliminary report states the crash happened around 1:15 a.m. on May 2 on the eastbound side near mile marker 4, and the driver took off instead of stopping. Investigators have not yet released the victim's identity as they continue canvassing for witnesses and evidence.
Investigators Seeking Public's Help
The Tennessee Highway Patrol, which is leading the investigation, says troopers recovered a passenger-side door mirror at the scene that could be the key to finding the vehicle. According to WKRN, the mirror matched the make and model of a 2017–2022 Ford F-250 or F-350, or a 2021–2025 Ford F-150. THP is asking anyone with information to call the department’s emergency dispatch at 615-986-4986, press 0, and ask for Trooper Noble Phillips in the Criminal Investigations Division.
A Busy Corridor With a Dangerous History
Vietnam Veterans Boulevard is a high-speed corridor that has already seen its share of serious wrecks, and local traffic planners have pushed for both safety and capacity upgrades for years. NewsChannel5 recently reported another deadly crash that shut down the eastbound lanes, underscoring how unforgiving this stretch of highway can be.
The Nashville Area MPO’s planning assessment lays out proposed widening projects and points to limited shoulders and concrete medians that complicate pedestrian safety. Those design features make walking along parts of SR 386 difficult and risky, planners note, even before you factor in late-night traffic.
Legal Consequences
Under Tennessee law, leaving the scene of an accident that results in death can be prosecuted as a felony. A Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals opinion cites Tenn. Code Ann. (see Tennessee Courts for the opinion that discusses the statute and its application).
How to Help
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash, saw a pickup with a missing or damaged passenger-side mirror, or has video that might be relevant is asked to call the THP Emergency Dispatch Communications Center at 615-986-4986, press 0, and ask for Trooper Noble Phillips, the patrol told WKRN. As of late Saturday, troopers had not released additional details, including the pedestrian's identity, while the investigation continued.
