Vigil held for D'Quan Armstrong, teen killed in hit-and-run one year ago

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Loved ones of D'Quan Armstrong gathered at a Northside park Sunday to honor and remember his life one year after he was killed in a hit-and-run crash.

The 14-year old was riding his bicycle on Sibbald Road when he was struck by a car, and died at the scene.
The driver in that case, Lucious Hester, turned himself in later that night.
He's now serving a five year prison sentence.

At Lonnie Miller Park Sunday, Armstrong's family said they hoped to keep his story alive and prevent other tragedies.

"I just miss his beautiful smile. D'Quan had the most beautiful smile. When you look into the eyes, I really do just miss his smile. His personality, just him," said Tiffany Scott, Armstrong's Aunt.

Last March, despite the family's objections, a judge accepted a plea deal earning Hester a five year prison sentence. Armstrong's family called it a slap in the face.

"It doesn't make it feel like there was justice for him. Justice just wasn't served. I don't konw , words cannot describe the feeling of it. It's just sad, it's sad."

In the months since Armstrong's death, Florida has passed tougher hit and run laws, but still, his family believes more can be done.

"It's so many hit and runs this day and age. It's just ongoing and ongoing. It's--they really should tighten up these laws behind that because it's just continuing," Scott said.
 


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.