Francine Nyanduhura dies in hit-and-run crash on Interstate 24 East

Lincoln Navigator driver strikes Toyota Sienna from behind in Nashville

November 30, 2025 | Nashville, TN

Francine Nyanduhura, a 22-year-old from Smyrna, lost her life in a hit-and-run incident early Sunday morning in Nashville, Tennessee. 

The crash occurred at approximately 3:20 a.m. on Interstate 24 East near the Old Hickory Boulevard exit ramp.

Francine Nyanduhura, 22, of Smyrna died after a speeding Lincoln Navigator rear-ended the Toyota Sienna she was riding in on Interstate 24 East near the Old Hickory Boulevard exit.

What Happened in the Crash?

Metro Nashville police reported that Nyanduhura was seated in the back of a Toyota Sienna when it was rear-ended by a speeding Lincoln Navigator. The crash triggered a multi-vehicle collision, also involving a Ford Edge and a Freightliner semi-truck. Nyanduhura sustained fatal injuries and passed away at the scene. The Lincoln's driver escaped on foot, leaving the investigation ongoing.

• Date and Time: Nov. 30, 2025, around 3:20 a.m.
• Location: Interstate 24 East, near Old Hickory Boulevard exit, Nashville, TN
• Vehicles Involved: Toyota Sienna, victim's vehicle, Lincoln Navigator, hit-and-run, Ford Edge, Freightliner semi-truck
• Outcome: One fatality, driver at large

Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Like This Occur?

Hit-and-run incidents often stem from speeding, impaired driving, or fear of legal consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding contributed to 11,775 fatal crashes in 2023, representing 29% of all U.S. traffic deaths. Hit-and-run fatalities have risen, with 2,049 recorded in 2016—the highest on record per NHTSA data.

Legal Insights on Hit-and-Run Investigations

In cases such as this, thorough investigations are crucial for justice and accountability.

“Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline. “In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party.”

• Attorneys can assist in gathering evidence beyond police efforts.
• Civil claims help families seek fair compensation for losses.
• Professional guidance ensures insurance companies do not undervalue claims.

Added Bond: “Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide families during this difficult time, protecting their rights while ensuring that drivers who don't obey traffic laws are held accountable.”

Potential Wrongful Death Claims

Pending the investigation's results, the family of Francine Nyanduhura may pursue a wrongful death claim to address funeral costs, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

“It is vital for families of victims to hire an attorney when filing a wrongful death injury claim, which allows the attorney to negotiate with an insurance company on the behalf of a client,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Insurance companies often try to pressure families of victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their clients to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

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