Police are investigating a tragic incident that occurred early Wednesday morning on Gallatin Pike North near the McHenry Center in Madison, Tennessee. Christopher Exum, 51, was struck and killed while attempting to cross the busy thoroughfare. According to authorities, a pickup truck hit a grocery cart Exum was pushing, knocking him into the roadway. The truck driver stopped to call 911, but Exum was subsequently run over by a sedan and a motorcycle, whose drivers did not stop at the scene.
Community concerns over pedestrian safety
Local transit rider Judith Krisell, who relies on WeGo public transit and frequently walks along this stretch of Gallatin Pike, expressed deep worry after the crash. “There are a lot of stores around here, so I come around here a lot,” Krisell said. “I feel like that could possibly happen to me someday and that doesn’t make me feel safe or make me want to come out here often.” She added that she will now use the nearest marked crosswalk, located near Myatt Drive, even though many pedestrians currently cross at the McHenry Center to reach nearby bus stops.
Lack of marked crossings and upcoming projects
Police confirmed that the intersection where Exum was killed has no marked crosswalks or pedestrian signals. The nearest official crossing is a short distance away, which many residents find inconvenient. Nashville’s “Choose How You Move” website lists a signal upgrade project for Gallatin Pike and the McHenry Center slated for next year, but no specific timeline for a new pedestrian crossing at the fatal crash site has been announced.
Authorities’ response
Investigators reported no signs of impairment by the driver who remained at the scene, and noted that light rain or drizzle was present at the time of the incident. They are still seeking information about the sedan and motorcycle riders involved and have asked anyone with details to contact the Traffic Division at 615‑862‑7738.
Funding and community action
The crash occurs two years after voters approved the “Choose How You Move” initiative, a local transportation and safety funding program. Residents like Krisell hope the tragedy will accelerate plans for safer pedestrian infrastructure, emphasizing the need for marked crosswalks and signals to protect those walking to schools, stores, and transit stops.
What’s next for Madison?
City officials have been urged to prioritize pedestrian safety improvements along Gallatin Pike North, a major corridor that sees heavy vehicle traffic and serves as a key route for shoppers and commuters. Community members are calling on local leaders to fast‑track the installation of marked crosswalks, flashing beacons, and possibly traffic‑calming measures to reduce vehicle speeds in the area.
As Madison mourns the loss of Christopher Exum, the incident underscores the broader need for safer walking environments in growing suburban neighborhoods. Residents and officials alike are watching closely to see how the upcoming “Choose How You Move” projects will address these critical safety gaps.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
