KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The motorcyclist killed in a hit-and-run last month has been identified by the Knoxville Police Department.
In an April 5 update, Knoxville Police shared new information about the case. The motorcyclist killed in the crash was identified as Donald Massengill, 54, of Knoxville. Massengill was a bus operator for Knoxville Area Transit, Director of Transit Isaac Thorne confirmed.
“The entire KAT family is grieving at the tragic loss of Bus Operator Don Massengill. A calm presence and natural mentor, Don was one of the first employees to receive his operator training certificate, making him a professional trainer for new bus operators, ” Thorne said. ” His warm demeanor and enthusiasm for KAT resulted in accolades from outside the organization that reflected a kind and dedicated co-worker. We are shocked and saddened, and his loss is being felt by us all.”
Knoxville Police Department also in the update said that other vehicle involved in the crash has been located. The department’s crash reconstruction investigators have been consulting with the Knox County District Attorney’s Office, the release states.
The investigation is still ongoing according to Knoxville Police.
The crash happened Wednesday, March 29 around 9:30 p.m. on Western Avenue near University Avenue, police said. According to the release, investigators think a motorcycle was driving west on Western Avenue when it was rear-ended by a vehicle that left the scene before officers arrived.
The vehicle is believed to be a silver or light colored sedan that left on Western travelling away from downtown, Knoxville Police said.
The motorcyclist was taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center with critical life-threatening injuries. Police say that the man has since died from his injuries.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Anyone with information about the driver or suspect vehicle is urged to contact the East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers.
There are multiple ways you can provide anonymous information to Crime Stoppers. You can call 865-215-7165 or **TIPS, and go online at www.easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org, via the free mobile app, P3 Tips, or on the East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers Facebook page. Tipsters can remain anonymous and are eligible to receive a cash reward.
The department is also investigating a pedestrian who was hit and killed by a car on Dandridge Avenue early Thursday morning. A KPD release said the involved vehicle is cooperating with the investigation.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated with new information.
