Melena Sanderson Obituary, Death: Woman hit, killed on I-40 after leaving car; police seek hit-and-run suspects.
Melena Sanderson Obituary, Death – A woman who died after being struck on I-40 West near Old Hickory Boulevard early Tuesday morning has been identified as 42-year-old Melena Sanderson from Nashville, according to police.
The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. when Sanderson reportedly got out of a gray SUV that had stopped on the right shoulder of the interstate. As she walked into the roadway, she was hit by several passing vehicles. The first vehicle that struck her was a burgundy sedan, which immediately left the scene after the collision. Following that impact, multiple other vehicles also hit Sanderson, but only one driver—a person operating a Fiat—stayed at the scene to speak with authorities and provide information.
Investigators revealed that the driver of the gray SUV that Sanderson had exited also drove away without stopping or providing assistance. Police are now actively searching for both the driver of the burgundy sedan and the gray SUV, as well as any other vehicles that may have been involved and left the scene.
Authorities believe the burgundy sedan would likely have significant damage to the front end, a damaged windshield, and possibly roof damage due to the nature of the impact. The vehicle may be noticeably altered or under repair following the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives are urging anyone with details about the incident—particularly those who may have seen the crash or know the identities of the involved drivers—to come forward. Tips can be shared anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.
The fatal incident highlights the dangers of being on foot on a busy highway during nighttime hours and has raised concerns about the rising number of fatal pedestrian accidents and hit-and-run cases. Police emphasized the importance of drivers remaining at the scene following any crash and rendering aid when possible, as required by law.
Authorities have not yet released further information about why Sanderson exited the vehicle or what events led up to the crash. Officials also have not confirmed whether the occupants of the gray SUV knew Sanderson or if other factors, such as mechanical trouble or a prior altercation, may have played a role.
Meanwhile, Sanderson’s death marks another tragic example of how quickly lives can be lost in hit-and-run incidents on major roadways. Her family and loved ones have not yet made a public statement, and it remains unclear if any nearby surveillance footage or witness reports will aid in identifying the vehicles involved.
Police continue to follow leads and ask anyone who may have been driving through the area at the time or who might have seen the damaged vehicles to come forward, even anonymously. The investigation remains active as authorities seek justice for the victim and aim to hold those responsible accountable.
