Victoria Johnson arrested for hit-and-run crash on Crystal Beach Road

She fled the scene after striking children near Faith Baptist Church

March 11, 2026 | Winter Haven, FL

Winter Haven authorities arrested 30-year-old Victoria Johnson following a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of an 8-year-old boy and serious injuries to a 10-year-old child. 

The collision occurred near Faith Baptist Church along Crystal Beach Road.

Victoria Johnson, 30, was arrested after a Hyundai Santa Fe struck two children and fled the scene on Crystal Beach Road near Winter Lake Road in Winter Haven.

What Happened in the Crash?

Two children were crossing Crystal Beach Road near Winter Lake Road around 8:30 p.m. on March 11 when a northbound 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe struck them. The driver fled the scene immediately after the collision.

Key details include:

• Location: Crystal Beach Road near Winter Lake Road, Winter Haven, Florida
• Time: Shortly before 8:30 p.m.
• Vehicle: 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe traveling northbound
• Victims: An 8-year-old boy who succumbed to injuries, and a 10-year-old child hospitalized in critical condition
• Identities: Not publicly disclosed to respect family privacy

Details of the Arrest and Charges

Johnson, previously arrested for DUI in November, confessed to using methamphetamine prior to the crash and operating with a suspended license. She also admitted to transferring the damaged vehicle to another individual to conceal evidence.

She faces felony charges, including:

• Leaving the scene of a crash involving death
• Tampering with evidence
• Providing false information to law enforcement

Johnson is currently held in Polk County Jail as the investigation continues.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Remain a Challenge in Florida?

Florida faces persistent issues with hit-and-run incidents, particularly those involving pedestrians. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), these crashes pose significant risks to vulnerable road users.

Data sourced from FLHSMV reports. Florida ranks among the top states for hit-and-run cases, highlighting the need for enhanced enforcement and awareness.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, conducting a thorough independent investigation is crucial to safeguard victims' rights and establish accountability.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important in order 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 thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

Key takeaways:

• Examine environmental factors like lighting and signage to determine negligence.
• Timely investigations preserve evidence and protect legal options.
• Families may pursue claims for losses, including funeral costs and emotional distress.

“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 at Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”

Pending investigation outcomes, affected families could be eligible for wrongful death claims covering funeral expenses, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

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