Interstate I-240 was shut down after a Memphis police car struck a pedestrian trying to cross the road. According to Memphis Fire officials, the accident took place early Friday morning.
Just before 5:45 a.m., the accident occurred on westbound I-240 near Lamar Avenue.
An officer was traveling on the interstate, MPD said, when a pedestrian tried to run across the road.
Unable to avoid being hit, the officer struck the pedestrian, who died at the scene, with his vehicle.
Police said the investigation is ongoing.
TDOT reported a crash at Exit 21/Lamar at 5:45 a.m. The exit ramp was closed while several westbound lanes were blocked.
Two lanes have reopened, MPD said. During the police investigation, the other lanes will remain closed for an undisclosed amount of time.
As an alternate route, drivers should use Winchester to Airways.
At approx. 5:42 a.m., an MPD officer was traveling w/b I-240 east of Airways when a pedestrian attempted to run across the interstate. The officer was unable to avoid striking the pedestrian. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene. This investigation is ongoing.
— Memphis Police Dept (@MEM_PoliceDept) May 13, 2022