Crime
Authorities Seek Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 19-year-old Ka’Vontrae Johnson in New Waverly
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the vehicle or driver involved in the hit-and-run to come forward.
The Huntsville Police Department and the Walker County Sheriff’s Office are urgently seeking information about the driver responsible for a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of 19-year-old Ka’Vontrae Johnson.
The tragic incident occurred on January 2, at approximately 3:45 p.m., on the 400 block of West State Highway TX-150, just west of New Waverly.
Ka’Vontrae Johnson was walking home from the library when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle. Instead of stopping to render aid, the driver fled the scene, leaving Ka’Vontrae fatally injured.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and attempted life-saving measures, but the young man tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Today would have marked Ka’Vontrae’s 20th birthday, adding a somber weight to the grief felt by his family and friends.
His sudden and senseless death has left a community heartbroken, with many calling for justice.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the vehicle or driver involved in the hit-and-run to come forward.
The Huntsville Police Department and Walker County Sheriff’s Office are committed to finding those responsible and holding them accountable for this tragic loss.
“We extend our prayers, condolences, and unwavering support to Ka’Vontrae’s family and friends,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office said.
“We encourage the public to help amplify awareness of this incident to ensure justice is served.”
If you have any information related to the hit-and-run, please contact:
- Walker County Sheriff’s Office: (936) 435-2400
- Huntsville Police Department: (936) 291-5480
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to local Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-392-7867 or visiting their website.
Ka’Vontrae Johnson’s life was tragically cut short as he walked home from the library—a place of learning and growth.
His loved ones, alongside the community, are united in their plea for answers and justice for a promising young man who was taken far too soon.
INDIANAPOLIS — Detectives with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) are investigating a physical disturbance that occurred near Senate Avenue and West Washington Street on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at approximately 12:30 a.m.
According to investigators, the incident involved two adult males and resulted in one individual sustaining laceration injuries and the other suffering wounds consistent with a stabbing.
Both men received medical attention at local hospitals.
The individual with apparent stab wounds remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Preliminary findings indicate the altercation was an isolated incident between the two men and not a random act of violence.
Detectives have confirmed that both individuals involved are not residents of the Indianapolis area.
The IMPD Aggravated Assault Unit has obtained and reviewed video footage related to the incident as part of the ongoing investigation.
Following further investigation and in consultation with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, IMPD detectives arrested 38-year-old Mark Sanchez for his alleged involvement.
Sanchez, who remains hospitalized, was arrested on preliminary charges of:
- Battery with injury (misdemeanor)
- Unlawful entry of a motor vehicle (misdemeanor)
- Public intoxication (misdemeanor)
Sanchez has not yet been booked into the Marion County Adult Detention Center, as he remains under medical care.
All individuals connected to this case have been identified, and no additional suspects are being sought.
The case will be presented to the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office for a final charging decision.
The IMPD Public Affairs Office noted that it is department policy not to release the identities of victims or suspects unless an individual has been formally charged, arrested, or is being actively sought.
Authorities emphasize that an arrest is merely an accusation, and Mark Sanchez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Probable cause affidavits related to this incident are not released by IMPD and must be obtained directly from the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office or the Marion County Clerk’s Office.