Child Killed, Another Seriously Injured in Hit-and-Run Crash Outside Winter Haven Church

An 8-year-old boy was killed and a 10-year-old boy suffered severe injuries after a hit-and-run crash outside a church near Winter Haven, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say the crash occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. on March 12, 2026, near Faith Baptist Church along Crystal Beach Road just off Winter Lake Road.

A suspect has since been arrested in connection with the tragic incident.

According to investigators, the two boys were attending a church function and were crossing Crystal Beach Road on the west side of the street after a truck had passed.

Deputies say a northbound vehicle struck both children while they were in the roadway.

Authorities reported that the driver did not stop and fled the scene, continuing to the intersection of Crystal Beach Road and Winter Lake Road before turning in an unknown direction.

Emergency responders rushed the children to the hospital.

The 8-year-old boy died from his injuries, while the 10-year-old boy survived but suffered severe trauma, including:

• A fractured skull
• A broken leg
• A broken arm

Officials said the boys are not related but were both attending the church event.

Investigators later arrested Victoria Ashton Johnson, 30, of Winter Haven, in connection with the crash.

Authorities say Johnson’s vehicle, a blue 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, was located at a residence along State Road 60 in Lake Wales.

Detectives reported that the SUV showed visible crash damage, missing parts, and what appeared to be biological material consistent with striking a pedestrian.

Johnson now faces several serious criminal charges, including:

• Leaving the scene of a crash involving death
• Leaving the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury
• Tampering with evidence
• Filing a false police report
• Driving with a suspended or revoked license

The case was investigated by the sheriff’s office Traffic Homicide Investigations Unit, with assistance from patrol deputies and real-time crime analysts.

Sheriff Grady Judd praised the investigative team, stating:

“I am so very proud of my detectives and analysts, who are the very best in the business, for their tenacity and determination which ultimately led to this suspect being taken into custody. Please keep these children’s families in your prayers.”

The Dangers of Hit-and-Run Crashes

Hit-and-run crashes are among the most devastating types of traffic incidents, particularly when they involve pedestrians or children.

Florida law requires drivers involved in crashes resulting in injury or death to stop immediately, provide aid, and notify authorities.

When drivers flee the scene, it can:

• Delay life-saving medical care
• Complicate accident investigations
• Increase the severity of injuries or fatalities

Leaving the scene of a crash involving death is a serious felony offense in Florida.

Legal Options for Victims’ Families

In addition to criminal charges, families of victims in hit-and-run crashes may pursue civil claims for wrongful death or catastrophic injury.

Potential claims may involve:

• The driver responsible for the crash
• Insurance coverage under uninsured or underinsured motorist policies
• Negligent vehicle owners if someone else owned the vehicle
• Other parties whose negligence contributed to unsafe road conditions

Civil cases can help families recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral and burial costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship and support

Investigation Ongoing

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the deadly hit-and-run crash that occurred near Faith Baptist Church on Crystal Beach Road.

Authorities have urged the community to keep the victims’ families in their thoughts as the case moves forward.

If your family has been affected by a hit-and-run crash or pedestrian accident, speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.