Woman Accused in Fatal Hit-and-Run Laughs in Court

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Florida woman accused of fleeing the scene of a crash that killed an 8-year-old boy was seen shaking her head and laughing during her first court appearance as the judge read the charges against her. Victoria Johnson, 30, of Winter Haven, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including leaving the scene of a crash involving death.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing issue of hit-and-run incidents and the lack of empathy shown by some drivers involved in such tragic events. The community is left grappling with the senseless loss of a young life and the troubling behavior of the accused.

The details

Johnson appeared before a judge via video conference, where she was seen shaking her head and laughing as the charges were read. She initially claimed she was not in the car, but later admitted to driving and hitting the two boys, who were attempting to cross the road during a church event. Authorities say Johnson had been using methamphetamine prior to the incident and had a suspended license due to a previous DUI arrest.

• On Wednesday, March 13, 2026, around 8:30 p.m., deputies received 911 calls reporting two boys had been struck by a vehicle that then fled the scene.
• On Thursday, March 14, 2026, Johnson called authorities to report her SUV as stolen, but later admitted to being the driver involved in the incident.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge set Johnson's bond at $100,000, but she was also held without bond for violating probation from a previous DUI case. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.