MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A tow truck driver is recovering from serious injuries after being run over by a driver attempting to escape during a routine vehicle repossession. The incident unfolded early on the morning of March 26, at the University Gardens Manor Apartments, just before 8 a.m.
According to Memphis police, the repossession, which started like any other, quickly turned violent when the driver of a red Ford Focus attempted to flee. The tow truck operator had positioned himself underneath the car when the driver reversed, running over the victim’s head. In a desperate attempt to escape, the driver hopped into the car, started the ignition, and put the vehicle in reverse.
A woman, who was also at the scene, appeared to disregard the injured tow truck driver and instead focused on directing the driver to make their escape. Footage from the incident shows the woman offering instructions as the tow truck driver screamed in pain.
The victim, despite the horrific injury, was able to walk away and later shared his experience on social media. From his hospital bed, he posted pictures showing the abrasions on his head, a large black mark on his sweatshirt, and complained of arm pain. According to police reports, the victim had to be shaken to stay conscious after the incident.
Neighbors who witnessed the situation were left shaken by the violent turn of events. Many expressed sympathy for the tow truck driver but were also deeply disturbed by how the situation unfolded. One anonymous resident remarked, “I feel sorry for him, but I don’t think your job is that important.”
Further investigation revealed that the woman involved had sold the car to the driver but failed to make payments. As a result, the car was placed for repossession, and the tow truck operator was called to recover it. Memphis police arrested a 34-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman on Friday. Both face aggravated assault charges for their role in the incident.
The harrowing event serves as a reminder of the dangers tow truck drivers face while performing their job. What was meant to be a routine repossession turned into a violent and near-fatal situation, but thanks to the resilience of the victim, the suspects are now facing criminal charges.
