A tragic hit-and-run crash in Virginia has left a grieving family searching for answers after a 16-year-old boy described as autistic and mentally disabled was killed while walking home after missing the last bus. The heartbreaking incident has shocked the local community and renewed concerns about drunk driving and drivers fleeing crash scenes.
Joshua Driver, 16, was reportedly struck and killed along West Broad Street in Henrico County after leaving an Arby’s with his brother late Friday night.
Police say the driver accused in the crash, 41-year-old John Daniel Bruehl, was under the influence at the time of the incident and allegedly fled the scene after hitting the teenager.
Teen Missed the Last Bus Home
According to Joshua’s mother, Sharon Driver, the teenager had gone to Arby’s with his brother on Friday evening. The two usually relied on public transportation to get back home, but Joshua reportedly missed the final bus of the night.
His brother was able to return home on the last bus, while Joshua was forced to walk back alone.
His mother believes Joshua was making his way home when the deadly crash happened.
The situation became even more heartbreaking because Joshua reportedly was not wearing the reflective safety vest he usually carried during walks at night.
Reflective Vest Was Left at Home
Sharon Driver explained that Joshua normally wore a reflective vest given to him by a school bus operator to help drivers see him more clearly while walking near roads at night.
However, she had washed the vest the previous day and had not yet dried it, leaving it unavailable when Joshua left home that evening.
His mother said she deeply regrets that the vest was not ready that night, although investigators have not said whether it would have changed the outcome of the crash.
The family described Joshua as someone who faced challenges because of autism and mental disabilities but was still aware of his surroundings and enjoyed spending time with family.
Police Say Driver Left the Scene
Authorities allege that John Daniel Bruehl struck Joshua with his vehicle while driving under the influence before leaving the area without stopping to help.
Police later discovered Joshua’s body in a grassy area near the side of the road several hours after the crash occurred early Saturday morning.
The discovery devastated Joshua’s family, who say they cannot understand how someone could leave a seriously injured teenager behind without calling for help.
Sharon Driver emotionally questioned how the accused driver could allegedly hit her son and simply drive away afterward.
Mother Shares Heartbreaking Grief
Joshua’s mother said one of the most painful parts of the tragedy is not knowing whether her son suffered after the crash or died instantly.
She spoke emotionally about the fact that Joshua never got the chance to fully grow up or become an adult.
Family members and supporters have since shared tributes online remembering Joshua as a caring and innocent teenager who faced life with challenges but still remained loved by those around him.
A GoFundMe page created to support the family described Joshua as autistic and mentally disabled while highlighting his awareness and understanding of the people and world around him.
Driver Facing Serious Charges
John Daniel Bruehl has now been charged with DUI and hit-and-run in connection with Joshua’s death.
According to arrest records, this was allegedly Bruehl’s second DUI-related offense within the past several years.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence surrounding the fatal crash.
