Darnell Hodges dies in hit-and-run crash on Pulaski Road

Silver SUV struck man and bicycle near Flower Road before fleeing toward Statesboro

May 07, 2026 | Metter, GA

A 68-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle on Pulaski Road near Flower Road in Candler County on May 7.

What happened in the crash?

Darnell Hodges, 68, died after he was struck by a silver SUV while in the roadway on Pulaski Road near Flower Road in Candler County.

• The incident occurred on May 7, around 10 p.m., near the Candler-Bulloch county line.
• A witness reported that Darnell Hodges had fallen in the roadway.
• A silver SUV struck Hodges and his bicycle before fleeing east toward Statesboro.
• Hodges was pronounced deceased at the scene.
• Georgia State Patrol identified the vehicle as a silver Honda CR-V using dash camera footage and local FLOCK cameras.
• A 33-year-old woman was taken into custody and is held at the Bulloch County Jail on a 48-hour investigative hold.

Why do hit-and-run crashes occur?

• Drivers often flee due to intoxication, lack of a valid license, or fear of arrest.
• More than one hit-and-run crash occurs every minute on U.S. roads.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, timely investigation protects the rights of those affected.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined.”

“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, hit-and-run, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”

Key takeaways

• An independent investigation can uncover contributing factors such as road conditions and lighting.
• Families may seek compensation for medical and funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional trauma.
• Holding drivers accountable supports justice for those affected.

Hit-and-Run Crash Statistics

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