A 16-year-old high school football player died in a hit-and-run incident in Valdosta, Georgia, while attempting to aid an injured dog. The tragedy took place on December 9, 2023, along Inner Perimeter Road.
Samuel Johnson Jr., a promising athlete at Valdosta High School, was near the 3900 block when he came across the dog. While trying to assist the animal, Johnson was hit by a dark-colored Dodge Charger, estimated to be a model from 2011 to 2014. The vehicle’s driver fled the scene immediately after the accident.
A passerby later found Johnson, along with another injured dog, in the median. Emergency responders were summoned, but Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene. The dog he was trying to save also died.
The hit-and-run driver of the Charger turned himself in at the police headquarters on December 11. This followed the release of the vehicle’s description by the police. The vehicle was located, but it is unclear if an arrest has been made.
The Wildcats, Johnson’s football team, posted a tribute on Instagram, expressing profound sadness over his loss. A memorial service for Johnson was held on December 10 at Perimeter Road Baptist Church in Valdosta, followed by his burial in Lowndes County.
