42-Year-Old Melena Sanderson Killed in I-40 Hit-and-Run; Metro Police Searching for Burgundy Sedan
The Tennessee Department of Transportation and Metro Nashville Police have confirmed a tragic hit-and-run incident that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning on Interstate 40 West near Old Hickory Boulevard. The victim, now identified as 42-year-old Melena Sanderson, lost her life after being struck by a vehicle that fled the scene.
The crash happened shortly after 12:30 a.m., sending shockwaves through the community and prompting a widespread investigation by local authorities. Emergency responders arrived swiftly on the scene after receiving multiple calls reporting a pedestrian down on the interstate. Despite their best efforts, Sanderson was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to preliminary findings from Metro Police, the suspect vehicle is believed to be a burgundy sedan. Investigators suspect the vehicle may have sustained significant damage in the crash, including heavy front-end damage, shattered or cracked windshield, and possibly damage to the roof. These details were provided based on debris analysis and witness accounts from motorists who were on the road at the time of the incident.
At this point in the investigation, authorities are pursuing all available leads. Surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras and businesses along the interstate corridor is being reviewed in hopes of identifying the vehicle and its driver. Detectives are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or noticed a burgundy sedan with recent, suspicious damage to come forward. Even the smallest piece of information could prove vital in tracking down the person responsible.
“This is a heartbreaking situation,” a Metro Nashville Police spokesperson stated. “A person’s life was taken, and the individual responsible chose to drive away, leaving the victim without aid. We are determined to find the driver and hold them accountable.”
Melena Sanderson’s identity was confirmed by the Metro Nashville Medical Examiner’s Office later Tuesday morning. While little has been made public about her personal life, family members and friends who spoke to local media expressed their grief and shock. They described Melena as a kind-hearted woman with a gentle spirit, someone who didn’t deserve to have her life end in such a violent and senseless manner.
As of this report, police have not released any additional suspect descriptions beyond the vehicle information. Investigators are asking residents in the Old Hickory Boulevard and I-40 areas to check their home surveillance or dashcam footage for any sightings of a burgundy sedan matching the description, especially in the hours surrounding the incident.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation temporarily closed a portion of I-40 Westbound during the investigation, causing delays throughout the early morning commute. The road has since reopened, but the haunting reminder of the tragedy lingers for many in the community.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on highways and the devastating consequences of hit-and-run drivers. Community advocates and safety officials are once again calling for stricter enforcement and public awareness regarding pedestrian safety and responsible driving behavior.
Metro Police are continuing to urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
As this is an active investigation and a developing story, updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The Metro Nashville community joins Sanderson’s family in mourning this tragic loss and hoping for justice in the days ahead.