Demanding answers: Bridgeport family says Tennessee police provided few details into man’s death

The family says 36-year-old Juan Gonzalez was walking to work in Knoxville in February when he was struck by a vehicle as he crossed the street.

News 12 Staff

Jun 4, 2023, 4:49 PM

Updated 326 days ago

Share:

The family of a Bridgeport man who was fatally struck by a car in Tennessee is demanding answers about his death.
The family says 36-year-old Juan Gonzalez was walking to work in Knoxville in February when he was struck by a vehicle as he crossed the street.
Gonzalez’s wife Leslie tells News 12 that the local police have provided few details about the incident and the investigation.
She says unanswered questions about how the tragedy occurred and who may have been responsible have only compounded her family’s grief.
"It's been a hard pill to swallow. Not being able to have a response for the kids or have some type of answer,” she said. “We want justice, one way or another."
The family remains heartbroken and devastated 100 days after the loss of the beloved family man.
"It's the hardest thing I've had to learn,” she said. “Having to wake up every morning, and wake my kids up, knowing that he's not going to be here. Having to be the rock. Having to be the strong one."
Gonzalez’s 15-year-old daughter Jeylani says would give anything to see her dad one last time.
“I would tell him I love him,” she said.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal says he has spoken to Knoxville police about Gonzalez’s death and expects to receive an update on Monday.


More from News 12
0:49
Nassau County says it will rework its lease approval process in effort to build resort and casino

Nassau County says it will rework its lease approval process in effort to build resort and casino

1:17
Sunny and cool for Friday; chance for rain late Saturday into Sunday

Sunny and cool for Friday; chance for rain late Saturday into Sunday

2:01
Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America hosts special event at Cradle of Aviation Museum

Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America hosts special event at Cradle of Aviation Museum

1:53
Shop Mother’s Day Gifts – Exclusive Offers Up to 75% OFF!

Shop Mother’s Day Gifts – Exclusive Offers Up to 75% OFF!

1:48
Ducks posthumously honor co-owner during Opening Day

Ducks posthumously honor co-owner during Opening Day

2:01
Students take part in pro-Palestinian protest at Hofstra University

Students take part in pro-Palestinian protest at Hofstra University

1:56
Superintendent: Person accused of making threats to Islip School District in custody

Superintendent: Person accused of making threats to Islip School District in custody

1:54
South Setauket father charged for allegedly abusing infant son

South Setauket father charged for allegedly abusing infant son

1:27
East Meadow School District: Nesconset man accused of lewd act worked as social worker

East Meadow School District: Nesconset man accused of lewd act worked as social worker

2:35
Law enforcement resumes search in Manorville in connection with Gilgo Beach case

Law enforcement resumes search in Manorville in connection with Gilgo Beach case

0:36
11 LIRR employees suspended without pay, accused of submitting fake COVID-19 vaccine cards

11 LIRR employees suspended without pay, accused of submitting fake COVID-19 vaccine cards

0:27
Brent Burns, Dmitry Orlov help Hurricanes hold on to beat Islanders 3-2 for 3-0 series lead

Brent Burns, Dmitry Orlov help Hurricanes hold on to beat Islanders 3-2 for 3-0 series lead

1:13
The East End: Shou Sugi Ban House in Watermill

The East End: Shou Sugi Ban House in Watermill

Ready to explore the great outdoors? These 14 tips can help you stay safe while hiking

Ready to explore the great outdoors? These 14 tips can help you stay safe while hiking

Is your mom awesome? Long Island tell us why your Mom Rocks!

Is your mom awesome? Long Island tell us why your Mom Rocks!

2:01
Police: 21-year-old woman fled fatal Massapequa DWI crash in stolen town patrol car

Police: 21-year-old woman fled fatal Massapequa DWI crash in stolen town patrol car

0:20
Police: Hempstead man killed in 3-car crash on Meadowbrook Parkway

Police: Hempstead man killed in 3-car crash on Meadowbrook Parkway

0:21
UBS Arena to host 2024 MTV VMAs in September

UBS Arena to host 2024 MTV VMAs in September

0:26
Court adjourned for two suspects in human remains case

Court adjourned for two suspects in human remains case

0:31
John's Crazy Socks, Guide Dog Foundation unveil world's first tactile Braille socks

John's Crazy Socks, Guide Dog Foundation unveil world's first tactile Braille socks