Memphis, TN – Pedestrian Fatally Struck on I-240 near S Pwy E

Memphis, TN (February 18, 2026) – A tragic pedestrian accident on Wednesday, February 18, claimed one life on Interstate 240. Memphis Police (MPD) responded to the scene just before South Parkway East following dispatch calls received around 6:45 a.m.

Officers arrived to find that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle in the southbound lanes. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Their identity has not yet been released

According to the Memphis Police Department, the driver involved in the collision remained at the location and is cooperating with investigators.

The local authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.

Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the person who lost their life.

What Can I Do after a Fatal Accident in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the first step is determining who has the legal priority to file a claim, as the law follows a strict order starting with the surviving spouse. Once established, you can seek a wrongful death claim to cover funeral costs and loss of support, but you must act quickly due to one of the shortest legal deadlines in the country. Getting help from a lawyer is usually recommended.

Tennessee law is very specific about who is allowed to file a legal claim after a death. The right belongs first to the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the right passes to the children, then to the parents, and finally to the next of kin or the personal representative of the estate.

Only one wrongful death lawsuit can be filed for a single person's death, so it is important for family members to be on the same page about who is leading the process.

Tennessee has a very strict one-year statute of limitations for wrongful death cases. This means you generally have exactly one year from the date of the injury that caused the death to either settle your claim or file a formal lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your right to seek any compensation is usually lost forever. Because evidence like witness statements and highway camera footage can vanish in weeks, starting the process of gathering the police report and documentation early is essential.

Having a wrongful death lawyer can help manage the adjusters, the investigation and the deadlines, can ensure your family is treated with the respect and fairness you deserve.

Our team at Dunk Law Firm offers resources and insight for those navigating the aftermath of an accident. For additional information or to discuss your situation, contact us at 414-209-4398.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.