MNPD: Man faces multiple charges in deadly 2023 crash

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A man is facing multiple charges related to a deadly December 2023 crash, the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) announced.

MNPD officers determined a Volkswagen Beetle driven by 75-year-old Jurgis Juodenas was traveling north on Springfield Highway when a Kia Sorento, driven by 59-year-old Charles Holt, crossed into the northbound lane and collided with Juodenas’ Beetle on Dec. 9, 2023. Police said Juodenas died at the scene while Holt received only minor injuries.

Holt reportedly told the MNPD he had just taken a new blood pressure medication and had not gotten much sleep prior to the crash. Holt added he believed he passed out, and data from the Sorento’s event data recorder showed Holt had been traveling under the speed limit ranging from 50 to 45 miles-per-hour before the crash.

Witnesses told News 2 Holt swerved into oncoming traffic and had nearly hit other vehicles before ultimately colliding with the Beetle.

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Holt faces vehicular homicide and reckless endangerment charges based on his lack of sleep and taking medication with a warning for users to avoid driving until they knew of the medication’s side effects.

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