Ricky Washington Jr. ID’d as Driver in Critical Condition: NASHVILLE, TN — A series of dramatic events unfolded on Briley Parkway when 23-year-old Ricky Washington Jr. was involved in a crash and later struck by a vehicle while attempting to flee the scene. Washington, now in critical condition, remains hospitalized following the collision.
Initial Crash and Escape Attempt
The incident began when Washington was involved in a collision in the northbound lanes of Briley Parkway. Instead of remaining at the scene, he fled the crash site, crossing over a concrete median and the southbound lanes before entering the property of the Inn at Opryland.
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Witnesses provided a description of Washington to the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), and an officer responding to the crash located Washington in the hotel parking lot with a security guard. When approached, Washington tried to flee once again.
Police Pursuit and Tragic Collision
As Washington attempted to escape, an officer deployed a taser in an attempt to subdue him. The taser failed to work, possibly due to the heavy coat Washington was wearing. In his pursuit of freedom, Washington jumped a guardrail and ran back onto Briley Parkway, where he was struck by a Dodge Challenger.
The vehicle, driven by 30-year-old Jerry Holt II of Nashville, collided with Washington, causing him to suffer critical, life-threatening injuries. Emergency responders rushed him to Skyline Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition.
Criminal Background and Charges
Authorities revealed that Washington was on a three-year supervised probation following prior convictions for felony reckless endangerment and marijuana possession in September 2023.
While Jerry Holt II, the driver of the Challenger, was not charged in connection with the collision, police later found nearly a pound of marijuana, a scale, and a firearm in his possession. Holt now faces charges related to drug possession and firearm violations.
A Reminder of the Dangers of Fleeing the Scene
This incident highlights the severe consequences of fleeing a crash scene, and the broader dangers associated with illegal activities. The MNPD continues its investigation into the events, urging the public to remain at the scene of an accident and cooperate with authorities to prevent further harm.