Witness reports fatal accident in the city center

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – It was just after midnight as Amanda Atkins was walking through downtown and was about to cross Commerce Street when a car sped east down the street, missing her by inches and hitting her hand as it came off the trail came off.

“The car literally careened down 4th and Commerce,” Atkins said, “I never expected that on a Thursday night in Nashville.”

The car went over the bike path, jumped the curb and onto the sidewalk when it hit a family waiting for a ride. Leroy Wienke, his wife, his sister-in-law and his brother-in-law were all hit. Atkins says she rushed over to help the 66-year-old, who was lying on the ground.

“I tried to help, but I saw the head injury and what his head looked like, I couldn’t continue,” Atkins said.

Wienke, his wife and sister-in-law were all taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He died in hospital from his injuries.

“I’ve never experienced anything like this before, not on this scale,” Atkins said.

According to police, the driver was John A. Williams, who had just turned 25 that day. His charges include vehicular homicide by intoxication and three counts of vehicular assault. He also had three other passengers in his car, none of whom suffered serious injuries.

Officers reported that Williams’ breath smelled of alcohol, had bloodshot eyes and exhibited slurred, incoherent speech when answering questions. According to the affidavit, Williams even needed help getting to the patrol car.

A search of the car found several bottles of alcoholic beverages, including Reposado tequila, the affidavit states, and there was also a strong odor of marijuana in the car.

When asked about building barriers on the road, Mayor Freddie O’Connell replied that it had not yet been considered because fatal accidents rarely occur here.

“We would encourage people to plan ahead so they don’t end up driving drunk or under the influence,” O’Connell said.

Atkins says she was lucky the car only hit her hand.

“I’m not sure if it’s okay. I have a bent ring from it, but I’m thankful that’s all that happened,” Atkins said.

Copyright 2024 WSMV. All rights reserved.