MNPD: Driver indicted in deadly I-24 crash was distracted by phone
According to a previous News 2 report, the crash happened in the westbound lanes of I-24 near the Old Hickory Boulevard exit at the Rutherford County line on July 2, 2024.
JULY 2024 | I-24 West reopens near Rutherford County line after deadly rollover crash, victim identified
The Metro Nashville Police Department said an investigation revealed that three vehicles were stopped in heavy traffic when a Dodge Ram pickup truck—driven by 28-year-old Tyler Watson of Murfreesboro— struck the rear of a Toyota Solara, which then crashed into the back of two other vehicles.
Officials said the driver of the Solara, identified as 39-year-old Daniel Roberts of Murfreesboro, died at the scene. Meanwhile, three other individuals were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
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Watson reportedly showed no signs of impairment, but was found to have been distracted on his phone at the time of the crash.
The 28-year-old was arrested this week and charged with vehicular homicide by reckless conduct, four counts of reckless aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and one count of reckless endangerment.
Police said Watson has since been released on a $25,000 bond.
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