Florida Woman Faces Court as She Smirks While Being Charged with Killing Eight Year Old Boy in Winter Haven Hit and Run

A Florida woman appeared in court Friday charged in connection with a tragic hit-and-run that killed an eight-year-old boy and severely injured a 10-year-old.

The incident occurred Wednesday night in Winter Haven, roughly 50 miles southwest of Orlando.

Victoria Johnson, 30, displayed a series of unusual expressions during her first court appearance.

Initially shocked as the charges were read aloud, she later turned to fellow inmates with a noticeable smile and expressed disbelief, reportedly saying, “I wasn’t even in the car,” before being instructed by the judge not to speak about the case.

Her bond was set at $100,000, prompting Johnson to wipe away tears as court proceedings continued.

Details of the Tragic Crash

Authorities reported that the two boys were attending a church event and had crossed a street when they were asked to return. It was during this moment that they were struck by a vehicle.

The eight-year-old boy died from his injuries, while the 10-year-old sustained multiple severe injuries, including a broken arm, broken femur, and a compound skull fracture.

Polk County Schools confirmed that the deceased child was a student at Boswell Elementary.

In a heartfelt statement, the school described him as beloved by both peers and teachers, highlighting his joyful spirit and willingness to help others.

Arrest and Conflicting Accounts

Johnson was arrested the following day after reporting her Hyundai stolen.

Investigators discovered biological matter inside the vehicle consistent with a pedestrian strike.

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When confronted, Johnson reportedly gave three different versions of events: first claiming the car had been stolen, then saying she lent it to someone who never returned it, and finally alleging she had given it to a man named Corey Stewart to “get rid of it.”

Police later located Stewart driving the vehicle with a female passenger, Mya Bass.

Both individuals resisted arrest but were eventually taken into custody.

A search of the car revealed missing and damaged parts along with evidence potentially linked to the crash.

Substance Use Admission

Investigators revealed that Johnson admitted to regular crystal meth use and confirmed she had used the drug before driving on the night of the crash.

She now faces multiple charges, including leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, leaving the scene causing serious bodily injury, tampering with evidence, driving without a license, causing death, and providing false information to law enforcement.

Impact and Consequences

The community is grappling with grief over the loss of a young life.

Boswell Elementary described the boy as a cherished member of the school family.

The crash also raises serious concerns regarding drug-impaired driving and public safety, highlighting the risks of leaving the scene after causing serious injury or death.

What’s Next?

Johnson remains in custody with a $100,000 bond.

The legal process is expected to involve further investigations into the events leading up to the crash, as well as toxicology reports.

Authorities are also pursuing charges against Stewart and Bass related to resisting arrest and potential obstruction of the investigation.

Summary

A tragic hit-and-run in Winter Haven, Florida, claimed the life of an eight-year-old boy and severely injured another child.

Victoria Johnson, the driver, appeared in court displaying unusual behavior and gave conflicting accounts of the incident.

Police discovered the vehicle, evidence linking it to the crash, and learned of Johnson’s meth use prior to driving.

She now faces multiple serious charges while the community mourns the young victim.

Bulleted Takeaways

• The incident occurred Wednesday night in Winter Haven, Florida, at a church event.
• Eight-year-old boy died; 10-year-old sustained severe injuries including a broken arm, broken femur, and skull fracture.
• Victoria Johnson, 30, arrested after reporting her Hyundai stolen, gave conflicting stories about the vehicle.
• Evidence from the car included damaged parts and biological material linking it to the crash.
• Johnson admitted to using crystal meth before driving.
• She faces multiple charges: leaving the scene of a crash with death, causing injury, tampering with evidence, driving without a license, and giving false information.
• Community and school mourn the young victim, describing him as joyful and well-loved.