Former NFL Coach Rex Ryan Charged After Hit and Run Allegations

Incident in Nashville

Former NFL head coach Rex Ryan turned himself in to police on Wednesday following an alleged hit and run incident in Nashville, Tennessee. The 63 year old faces six misdemeanor charges after an event that took place last Thursday.

The Nashville Police Department stated that two pedestrians were crossing Broadway from 4th Avenue while using a walk sign. Ryan was driving a pickup truck that ran over their feet and made contact with one person's leg.

Confrontation and Arrest

Witnesses reported that Ryan kept driving after hitting them. He eventually stopped at a red light further down the road, where the two pedestrians caught up and waved him down.

Ryan stepped out of his truck and argued with the pedestrians. Instead of offering assistance or sharing details, he got back inside his vehicle and drove away. The pedestrians managed to take photographs of his license plate, which police matched to his vehicle registration.

Following the investigation, six misdemeanor warrants were issued. Ryan turned himself in and now faces two counts of leaving the scene of an accident, two counts of failure to give information or render aid, and two counts of failure to obey a traffic control signal. A judge set his bond at $6,000.

Long Career in the NFL

Ryan built his reputation over many years in professional football. He started as a defensive assistant with the Baltimore Ravens in 1999, taking charge of their defensive line before stepping up as defensive coordinator in 2005. He remained with Baltimore until 2008.

His biggest roles came as a head coach. He managed the New York Jets for six seasons from 2009 to 2014, leading them to consecutive AFC Championship Games in 2009 and 2010.

Ryan later moved to the Buffalo Bills, where he served as head coach for two seasons in 2015 and 2016. Over his full tenure as an NFL head coach, he posted a record of 61-66 in regular games and finished 4-2 in playoff matches.