A Nashville man was killed after being struck by an SUV on the freeway while attempting to retrieve his child’s “favorite toy” that was thrown out the window earlier in the evening.
Joshua Thomas Taylor was traveling with his family on I-65 south on Thursday night when his child tossed the toy onto the freeway. Taylor, 32, went back just before 9 p.m. to look for the toy, parking his car at an off-ramp and walking along the interstate, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department wrote in a news release.
“Truck drivers from the Tennessee Department of Transportation HELP discovered Taylor and attempted to speak with him. Taylor dashed across the highway and hopped over the jersey barrier to the northbound side “According to the press release. “When Tennessee Department of Transportation HELP truck drivers heard the crash, they quickly began moving to the opposite side of the freeway.”
According to authorities, Joshua was hit by a GMC Yukon and was declared deceased at the scene. The driver “remained at the site and did not show any signs of impairment,” according to police, and “speed does not appear to be a factor.”
Joshua is described as a kind and loyal spouse, dad, son, and friend who lived his life with passion and purpose, on a GoFundMe page put up for the family.
Joshua had two kids, Brenna, 13, and Noble, 2. His wife, Esther, had just recently revealed that they were expecting another kid in September of this year.
The Taylor family said on their GoFundMe page that while they have tremendous peace knowing that Joshua is with his Savior, our hearts bleed for the Taylor Family, particularly his wife, Esther, and his two children. Also, Esther is 20 weeks pregnant with a baby boy.
It further said to kindly assist them with encompassing Esther with affection and backing during this difficult time. All funds generated will be used to defray the costs of a memorial ceremony as well as to relieve any financial obligations on Esther and her children.
Friends and loved ones paid tribute to Joshua, recollected what a mindful and adoring man he was.
One of the Taylors’ pals wrote that she wants her to know that she is there for her no matter how close or far they are. Esther has always been a reliable companion. Her husband and she are praying for Esther and her family through this really trying time. She is sending all her love to Esther.
Added another by thanking Josh for his generosity, Josh and is sorry for the loss and that of the family.
May the amazing father Jousha’s soul rest in peace. May the family be surrounded with strength, peace and lots of love.
