Fatal Nashville Dump Truck Accident Results in Two Deaths, Drunk Driving Suspected

Dump Truck Crash in Nashville Leaves Two Dead

Nashville, Tenn. – A serious traffic accident involving a dump truck took a tragic turn over the weekend, claiming the lives of two individuals. The Metro Nashville Police Department reported that the incident occurred late Sunday night at the intersection of Charlotte Pike and Old Hickory Boulevard.

Details of the Crash

The crash happened around 11 p.m. when a Freightliner dump truck driven by 23-year-old Nicholas Sterling ran a flashing red light. According to police reports, Sterling was heading south on Old Hickory Boulevard when he struck the driver’s side of a Ford Focus that was traveling east on Charlotte Pike.

The driver of the Ford Focus, Kendall Cartwright, 38, was pronounced dead at the scene. Reports indicate that Sterling had a noticeable odor of alcohol on his breath when police arrived. Officers discovered an open beer bottle in the dump truck, which raised further concerns about his condition behind the wheel.

Victim Identification

The event took a further grim turn when it was reported that a passenger in the Ford Focus, Eduardo Benitez-Alamillo, 46, succumbed to his injuries the following afternoon at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. This second death prompted police to upgrade the charges against Sterling.

Charges and Arrest

Nicholas Sterling was initially charged with vehicular assault, but due to the fatalities, his charges have now been upgraded to vehicular homicide for both the deaths of Cartwright and Benitez-Alamillo. After being released from the hospital where he received treatment for minor injuries, Sterling was booked into the Davidson County Jail on a $40,000 bond.

At this time, he faces two counts of vehicular homicide by intoxication. The police are also pursuing blood sample results that were taken under a search warrant following the crash.

Community Reaction

This unfortunate incident has sparked concern within the Nashville community, highlighting the serious issues surrounding drunk driving. Many residents are calling for increased awareness and stricter measures to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.

“It’s heartbreaking to think that someone’s poor choice can lead to such devastating consequences,” said a local resident. “We need to take this seriously and educate others about the risks of drinking and driving.”

Previous Cases

This crash is not an isolated incident. Nashville has seen its share of road tragedies in the past, often related to impaired or reckless driving. Local authorities have been ramping up efforts to conduct more sobriety checkpoints and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing these kinds of accidents.

The Metro Nashville Police are urging anyone who might have witnessed the crash to come forward with any information that could assist in their investigation.

Next Steps for Authorities

In the wake of this tragic accident, the Nashville police will continue to investigate the events surrounding the crash. Authorities are expected to review traffic camera footage from the area and speak with potential witnesses. The investigation will likely take time, as thoroughness is essential in such serious matters.

The court date for Nicholas Sterling has yet to be announced, but it is expected that he will face rigorous scrutiny given the circumstances of the case. As the community mourns the loss of life, many hope this incident will lead to serious conversations about road safety and responsible behavior behind the wheel.

Staying Informed

As further details emerge regarding this case and the ongoing investigation, residents are encouraged to stay informed. Local news sources and community bulletins will provide updates about legal proceedings and any preventive measures being implemented to enhance public safety.

The tragic accident serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences of driving under the influence. Authorities continue to stress the importance of making responsible choices to ensure the safety of all road users.

In memory of the victims involved in this crash, the Nashville community is uniting in support for their families during this incredibly difficult time.