NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A pedestrian was killed on Interstate 40 Thursday night after being hit by multiple vehicles.
The crash happened at 7:45 p.m. between Exit 221A for SR-45 and the Hermitage and Exit 219 for Stewarts Ferry Pike.
Police say 29-year-old Stephen Alexander Mercaldo of Lilburn, Georgia was trying to cross the interstate when he was hit by a Ford Expedition driven by 23-year-old James Myers. Metro Nashville Police officials say Myers did not stop or stay at the scene and the man was subsequently hit by other vehicles.
All westbound lanes were closed for several hours as police investigated.
Later that night, Myers went to the MNPD Madison Precinct where he told officers that the car in front of him suddenly swerved, avoiding the man, but he wasn't able to avoid him. He told officers he drove to the next exit, parked his vehicle at a gas station on Donelson Pike, and called a friend to give him a ride.
Crash investigators will consult the District Attorney’s Office to determine whether charges will be placed against Myers, who showed no signs of impairment.
After reports about the crash aired on TV, the Department of Emergency Communications received several calls from additional drivers who reported that they may have also run over the individual. Officers contacted them and took their statements.
Police say the man did not have any identification on him. Fingerprint analysis is being conducted to identify him. Anyone with information about the pedestrian or this fatal crash is asked to call the Department of Emergency Communications at 615-862-8600.
