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Memphis police officer killed after being hit by 18-wheeler on I-40

Tennessee Highway Patrol investigating the incident

Credit: Memphis Police Department

MPD Officer Darrell Adams, 34 died Saturday, October 2 when hit by an 18-wheeler while investigating a crash

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Memphis police officer was killed Saturday morning when he was hit by an 18-wheeler while investigating another crash.

According to MPD, Officer Darrell Adams, 34 was at the scene of a crash on I-40 westbound near North Watkins when the 18-wheeler hit him at 11:08 a.m.

Officer Adams was assigned to the Austin Peay precinct and had been with MPD since April 2016.

The driver of the 18-wheeler has been detained. No charges have been filed at this time.

"Today, my heart aches again for the loss of another dedicated servant of our city. I am in deep prayer for our officer's family and the men and women of the Memphis Police Department." - Chief Cerelyn Davis

"Today, my heart aches again for the loss of another dedicated servant of our city. I am in deep prayer for our officer's family and the men and women of the Memphis Police Department." - Chief Cerelyn Davis pic.twitter.com/l4FfX15G4I
— Memphis Police Dept (@MEM_PoliceDept) October 2, 2021

Credit: TDOT Smartway

I-40 westbound, west of Watkins

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Officer Darrell Adams, his friends, and @Mem_PoliceDept. Today serves as another solemn reminder of the risks our officers take each time they put on the uniform in service to others. https://t.co/kiU1MwgnfO
— Mayor Jim Strickland (@MayorMemphis) October 2, 2021

The deadly crash shut down I-40 westbound for a big part of Saturday.

Officers are on the scene of a fatal crash at I40 West near North Watkins. One male has been pronounced deceased on the scene. Investigation is on-going.
— Memphis Police Dept (@MEM_PoliceDept) October 2, 2021