Randall Waters killed in pedestrian crash on Waco Mill Road

Driver fled after vehicle hit man and then struck parked semi-trailer

March 28, 2026 | Washington, GA

A tragic hit-and-run in Washington County claimed the life of 61-year-old Randall Waters, leaving authorities searching for the fleeing driver.

Randall Waters, 61, died after being struck by a vehicle that fled the scene on Waco Mill Road in Washington County.

What Happened in the Crash?

On March 28, a white Ford Focus veered across the dividing line in the 500 block of Waco Mill Road, striking Waters around 9 p.m. The vehicle then collided with a parked semi-trailer before the 22-year-old driver fled on foot.

• Location: 500 block of Waco Mill Road, Washington, GA
• Time: Shortly before 9 p.m.
• Vehicle Involved: White Ford Focus traveling westbound
• Victim: Randall Waters, 61
• Outcome: Waters pronounced dead at the scene, suspect at large
• Charges: Vehicular homicide, hit-and-run, speeding, failure to maintain lane

Emergency services arrived quickly but could not save Waters. The Washington County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation and urges tips at 478-552-4795.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

Hit-and-run incidents often stem from drivers attempting to evade responsibility, but they face severe legal consequences upon capture. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) highlights the growing danger to pedestrians nationwide.

Source: Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In Georgia, pedestrian safety remains a pressing concern, with rural roads like Waco Mill Road posing unique risks due to limited lighting and higher speeds.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collision cases to establish fault and support for families.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined. An accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. All of these resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision.”

• Key Takeaways:

  • Drivers must yield to pedestrians at all times.
  • Investigations often involve professional analysis of scene factors like weather and vehicle dynamics.
  • Families may pursue claims for lost income, emotional distress, and other damages.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, funeral expenses, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

In cases such as this, compassionate legal guidance helps navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims while upholding victims' rights.

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