A suspect has been arrested in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash in Fort Lauderdale that claimed the life of a 70-year-old grandfather earlier this week, authorities confirmed Friday.
According to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, Travaris Lamain McCoy, 25, was taken into custody Thursday and is facing multiple charges, including leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
What Happened
Police said the victim, Johnnie Lee Davis, was struck and killed around 8 p.m. Monday on West Sunrise Boulevard near Northwest 5th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale.
Investigators reported that Davis was walking in the area when he was hit by a vehicle later identified as a white Dodge Ram truck. Surveillance footage reviewed by police showed Davis being struck and forcefully thrown down the roadway as the vehicle continued without stopping.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after, but Davis was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Arrest
Police described the case as involving an “intense investigation,” which included reviewing surveillance footage, gathering evidence, and following multiple leads. Authorities said those efforts ultimately led detectives to McCoy.
In addition to the hit-and-run charge, McCoy is also accused of driving with a suspended license and tampering with evidence, police said.
Officials confirmed McCoy admitted to detectives that he was driving the truck at the time of the crash.
Court Appearance and Bond Conditions
McCoy was booked into jail and appeared before a judge on Friday. During the hearing, prosecutors outlined the charges and noted his alleged confession.
A judge set McCoy’s bond at $76,000. If he posts bond, he will be required to wear a GPS monitoring device and will be prohibited from driving while awaiting trial.
Prosecutors also referenced McCoy’s prior criminal history, which reportedly includes grand theft, aggravated fleeing and eluding, and previous driving with a suspended license offenses.
Family Speaks Out
Davis’ daughter, Jazzlynn Simmons, spoke publicly earlier in the week about the devastating loss of her father. She said her family was already grieving the recent death of her mother when the fatal crash occurred.
“He’s of life and love, and I don’t understand how someone can hit my father and run like that,” Simmons said. “I just want justice for my father.”
After learning of McCoy’s arrest, Simmons said it brought some relief but did not erase the pain.
“I lost my best friend. I had a really good father, and I no longer have that,” she said. “It eases some of the pain knowing the guy is incarcerated, but the pain is still there.”
Ongoing Case
Police said the case remains under investigation as it moves through the court system. Authorities emphasized their commitment to accountability in fatal hit-and-run cases and urged drivers to remain at the scene of any crash involving injury or death.
No trial date has been announced at this time.
