Tennessee Highway Patrol says viral claim of trooper hitting protester in Memphis is false

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Tennessee Highway Patrol says social media claims that a trooper hit a protester in Memphis are not true.

In a Facebook post, THP said video from the scene shows the person was not struck by a patrol vehicle.

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Troopers say the individual is seen holding onto the front of a patrol car, lying down in front of it, then standing back up and leaving the area under his own power.

THP says the video does not show the person being run over or injured, despite what has been circulating online.

The agency said it respects and protects the right to protest peacefully. However, it said that right does not include entering active roadways or putting people in danger.

Troopers say when someone steps into traffic, it creates a serious and immediate risk.

Our priority is always public safety for motorists, protesters and certainly our troopers,” the post said. “When someone enters the roadway, it creates a serious and immediate risk, and troopers are trained to respond to prevent injuries or worse outcomes.