MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A tragic scene unfolded in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a man was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash in East Memphis, according to the Memphis Police Department (MPD). The deadly incident occurred near Poplar Avenue and Cresthaven Street, a busy stretch of road that, at that hour, was mostly empty—until a police officer came upon the victim.
According to MPD, the officer was patrolling the area around 4 a.m. when they spotted a man lying unresponsive in the street. The officer immediately stopped to assist and called for emergency medical services. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Initial investigations point to a hit-and-run. MPD believes the man was struck by a vehicle whose driver fled the scene without rendering aid or contacting authorities. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
As of Wednesday afternoon, police said no suspects had been identified and no arrests had been made. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear—including whether the victim was walking, crossing the street, or standing in the roadway when he was hit.
MPD has not released any descriptions of the suspect vehicle, but investigators are urging anyone with information, including nearby businesses or residents with security footage, to come forward. The area near Poplar Avenue and Cresthaven is lined with commercial properties and residences, raising hope that surveillance cameras may provide critical evidence.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can be lost when drivers make the choice to flee the scene,” said one MPD spokesperson. “We’re asking the public to help us bring justice to this man and his family.”
Pedestrian fatalities in Memphis have been an ongoing concern in recent years, with city officials and transportation advocates repeatedly highlighting the need for increased safety measures, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when visibility is reduced and pedestrian presence may not be expected.
Local residents reacted to the news with a mix of grief and frustration. “This keeps happening,” said one woman who lives near the scene. “People drive too fast down Poplar and don’t pay attention. And for someone to hit a man and just leave him there… it’s unthinkable.”
A small makeshift memorial began to form Wednesday afternoon at the site of the incident—candles, flowers, and a handwritten sign reading “Rest in Peace” were placed on the sidewalk near where the victim was found.
MPD continues to investigate the case and is urging anyone who may have been in the area around 4 a.m. Wednesday or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious to contact CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Tips can be made anonymously and could lead to an arrest.
This incident serves as yet another painful reminder of the devastating impact of hit-and-run crashes—not just on victims and their families, but on entire communities left reeling from the senseless loss. As Memphis mourns another life cut short, the demand for safer streets and greater accountability grows louder.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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