Yulonda Parham Killed in Nashville Pedestrian Accident
The early Sunday morning crash just south of downtown Nashville killed two pedestrians.
Officers were called to the 100 block of Lafayette Street at approximately 2 a.m. on Sunday, April 5 after two people were reportedly struck by a vehicle traveling at high speed. A 2011 Lexus 250 sedan was heading outbound from downtown when it hit Yulonda Parham, 31, and Kanon Oldham, 27. Both victims were taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where they died. The male driving the car pulled over after the crash and ran away. Investigators are still working to identify him. A woman — identified as the registered owner of the Lexus — then arrived at the scene “to attempt to aid in the investigation,” MNPD said. No signs of drug or alcohol use were found inside the vehicle, but it was impounded for forensic analysis.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers can remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.
Investigators will examine various factors, including road conditions, lighting, and any obstructions that may have contributed to the crash on Lafayette Street. The early morning hours often present reduced visibility for drivers. Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents, while declining nationally, still pose a significant risk, particularly in urban environments. The absence of a driver at the scene complicates investigations for authorities. Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, noted that "A pedestrian hit at forty miles per hour faces an eighty-five percent chance of death. Speed is the variable that's most controllable, yet it's the number one reason we see so much loss in urban areas." The Metro Nashville Police Department continues its investigation and seeks to identify the driver responsible. The community impact of such incidents extends beyond the immediate families, raising questions about pedestrian safety in downtown corridors.
Under Tenn. Code § 20-5-106, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Tennessee applies modified comparative fault (50% bar). The statute of limitations is 1 year. Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and mental anguish.