Illegal Immigrant Accused Of Killing Nashville Restaurant Owner Had Previous Felony Charges Dismissed

A judge has dismissed three felony charges against Ulises Martinez, an illegal immigrant accused of causing the hit-and-run death of Nashville restaurant owner Matt Carney.

Martinez was involved in the incident outside Carney’s restaurant on June 19, with Carney succumbing to his injuries on July 4.

He was previously arrested alongside Christian Arredondo in February for vehicle theft but had those charges dismissed after a preliminary hearing, as the judge found insufficient evidence of probable cause.

During this hearing, testimonies suggested confusion around ownership of the stolen vehicles involved.

Martinez and another man are alleged to have stolen tools from Carney’s truck, leading to the confrontation and Carney’s death.

The District Attorney’s office has not indicated whether they will refile the earlier charges.