NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A Metro Public Works employee was killed in a fiery crash near the Hermitage on Monday morning. Metro police said a medical issue may have contributed to the crash.
Officers said Jerry Snyder, 60, was driving a city brush truck when he ran off Old Hickory Boulevard, struck a metal utility pole, then hit a tree line before the vehicle caught fire. The Nashville Fire Department said he was found dead inside the truck, which was engulfed in flames with firefighters arrived.
Photo released by: Mayor John Cooper
Witnesses reported seeing Snyder grab his chest as he lost control of the truck.
Metro Public Works released the following statement in response to his death.
"Metro Nashville Public Works is mourning the death of longtime employee Jerry Snyder, 60, who died tragically at 9:39 a.m. today in an on-duty single-vehicle crash on Old Hickory Boulevard in Hermitage. Mr. Snyder served with the department for eight years as a knuckle-boom truck operator and is remembered by his colleagues most recently for his determination in the restoration clean up after the devastating March 3rd tornado."
Police said he was traveling to recycling sites to pick up Christmas trees when the crash happened.
Officials with The Hermitage said the property was not damaged by the fire. Old Hickory Boulevard at Plantation Drive near Lebanon Pike was closed on Monday morning as crews investigated.
Mayor John Cooper posted the above photo of Snyder to social media saying, "I offer my condolences to the colleagues, family, and friends of Jerry Snyder. Jerry was a dedicated member of @NashvillePW for 8 years and every day, gave his all while serving our Nashville community."
