Tragic Car Crash Claims Life of Brentwood Boy

by Samantha Hearn, Brentwood Home Page

In a tragic car crash late Wednesday afternoon, eight-year-old Scales Elementary School student Hayes Springer lost his life.

The crash happened around 4:30 p.m. on Old Hickory Boulevard near Granny White Pike. The boy’s mother, Jennie Springer, 38, of Brentwood, was driving her 2005 Honda Odyssey westbound on Old Hickory Boulevard and was slowing or stopped in the left lane of traffic when the minivan was struck from behind by the driver of a 2008 Jeep Wrangler, Scott Simpson, age 24.

Hayes was in a booster seat in the third row of the vehicle. He was transported to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital where he died. His eight-year-old brother, Battle, was in a booster seat in the second row. The boys were ten months apart. Jennie Springer and Battle were treated for non-critical injuries.

Simpson told officers that his backpack slid off the front seat just before the crash. According to police, he said he went to retrieve it and when he returned his attention to the roadway, he was unable to avoid the collision. Simpson, of Franklin, was not injured.

There was no evidence of alcohol or drug involvement at the scene. No charges have been placed at present, but the District Attorney’s Office will review the completed investigation.

Hayes had just finished his first-grade year at Scales Elementary School. His father is Jarron Springer, CEO of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors.

The Home Page’s and Williamson Source’s thoughts and prayers are with the Springer family. Check back for updates.

Samantha Hearn reports for Home Page Media Group. She can be reached via email at [email protected] or on Twitter @samanthahearn.