Family Believes Fatal Motorcycle Crash May Have Been Foul Play

While Nashville is no stranger to bicycle and motorcycle accidents, last month saw a more bizarre tragedy in which a 32-year-old man involved in a fatal motorcycle crash had a bullet in his tire. Gary Brown Jr. was found dead next to his motorcycle on June 15 on Old Lebanon Dirt Road after a night of drinking. While the death was called an accident, his family discovered a bullet hole in one of the tires after getting his motorcycle back. Now, they believe the crash may have been murder.

Metro police confirmed it was a bullet hole, but said it appeared to be consistent with a shot at a parked bike, not a moving bike. However, the investigation remains open. Brown’s family also learned that he was involved in a confrontation at the bar the night of his death. It is reported that the only witness to the accident fled the scene, and had said Brown was still alive when he left.

Restitution and Criminal Injury Compensation

Tennessee allows victims of a crime such as murder to get restitution from the perpetrator. Restitution is intended to be paid only to reimburse the victim for financial loss directly related to the criminal offense. Under Tennessee Code 39-11-118 a judge may order restitution to be paid to victims of crime as a part of or condition of the defendant’s sentence. If a plea agreement is reached in a case, the restitution amount and performance requirements must be set out in the plea agreement. Additionally, the time period and method of payment must be set out at the time of sentencing, including installment payments. Courts may also amend the pay schedule, but not beyond the terms of probation or parole.

Moreover, Tennessee is unique in that state Department of Treasury administers a financial assistance program to assist crime victims through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Program. This fund is intended to assist victims and their dependent relatives in the case of the victim’s death. Payments made under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Program are intended to defray the costs of medical services, loss of earnings, burial costs, and other financial losses incurred as a direct result of a criminal offense. Eligible crimes include, but are not limited to, homicide, aggravated assault, sexual assault, robbery by force, and drunk driving.

Nashville Personal Injury and Criminal Injury Lawyers

At Calhoun Law, PLC in Nashville, we understand difficulties faced by the families of those killed in accidents. Our priority is to help you and your family get the security you need to begin the healing process. Our lawyers will comb through the details of your case and look for both criminal and civil components, and help you get the retribution you need. If you have lost a loved to an accident or an intentional act, do not hesitate to contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.