Woman Killed, Man Critically Hurt in Nashville New Year’s Day Crash

Fatal New Year’s Day Crash Outside Nashville Bar

A woman died and a man was critically injured early New Year’s Day when a speeding car drove onto a sidewalk and struck them outside a bar in Nashville, Tennessee. The crash occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. outside Pecker’s Bar and Grill on Hermitage Avenue, where a New Year’s celebration had taken place.

Metro Nashville Police reported that the woman, identified as 23-year-old Afriye Seegars of Nashville, died at the scene. A 24-year-old man was transported to a hospital in critical condition following the incident. Both victims had called a rideshare and were about to get into the vehicle when they were hit by the car.

Vehicle Sought in Hit-and-Run Collision

According to Metro Nashville Police, the vehicle involved in the crash is a red or maroon Ford Mustang that fled the scene after striking the pedestrians. Officers released a blurry security photo of the car taken immediately after the collision. Car parts from the vehicle remained scattered on the sidewalk on Thursday afternoon.

Police are actively searching for the Ford Mustang and are asking anyone with information about the crash or the vehicle to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Authorities stated that callers can remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward.

Witness Reports Emergency Response Efforts

A witness who identified herself as Liz stated that she saw the crash while leaving Pecker’s Bar and Grill with friends. She said she called 911 and went to assist the two victims. According to her account, people at the scene performed CPR on Afriye Seegars but were unable to save her.

Local Official Highlights Road Safety Concerns

Metro Council Member Jacob Kupin said the crash underscores safety concerns on roads near downtown Nashville. He noted that the city lowered the speed limit on Hermitage Avenue to 25 miles per hour over the summer. Kupin stated that the victims were leaving a New Year’s celebration and entering a rideshare when one was killed and the other was seriously injured.

Kupin said he wants Metro Nashville Police to increase enforcement of traffic violations in 2026. He stated that he believes stronger enforcement would influence driver behavior and reduce dangerous driving, such as running red lights.