Carlos D. Atilano Identified as Victim killed in Fatal Head-On Collision in Antioch

The Metro Nashville Police Department has identified the driver killed in a tragic head-on collision in Antioch early Wednesday morning as 26-year-old Carlos D. Atilano. The identification was confirmed through fingerprint analysis following the accident. Atilano was behind the wheel of a Toyota Camry on Bell Road when the vehicle struck a curb, overcorrected, and veered into the opposite lane, colliding with a police patrol SUV.

The collision occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. at the intersection of Bell Road and Mt. View Road. Atilano was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the patrol SUV, Sgt. Trevor VonDohlen, sustained severe injuries and was promptly transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for treatment. Sgt. VonDohlen, a dedicated homicide sergeant with the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), has served the force for 12 years.

At the time of the collision, Sgt. VonDohlen was responding to a reported suicide on Creekview Drive. The impact of the crash caused significant damage to both vehicles, and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to provide assistance and conduct an initial investigation.

Carlos D. Atilano’s death marks a tragic loss, and the incident highlights the dangers of road conditions and the critical importance of cautious driving. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances that led to Atilano’s vehicle striking the curb and subsequently crossing into the opposite lane.

Sgt. VonDohlen’s colleagues and the wider Nashville community are rallying in support of his recovery. Known for his commitment to his duties and his years of service, Sgt. VonDohlen’s condition remains a top concern, and updates on his progress are being closely monitored by the MNPD and local residents.

The collision has also brought to light discussions about road safety and the need for improvements in infrastructure to prevent such accidents. The community’s response underscores the importance of traffic safety measures, especially on busy roads like Bell Road and Mt. View Road.

As the investigation proceeds, the Metro Nashville Police Department urges anyone with information about the crash to come forward. The details gathered will be crucial in piecing together the events that led to this tragic incident and in implementing measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Carlos D. Atilano’s passing is a significant loss, and the thoughts and prayers of the community are with his family during this difficult time. The accident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of road travel and the importance of vigilance and safety for all drivers.