A Bahamian family faces compounded tragedy as they seek both answers and financial assistance following the fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of 29-year-old Devon Butler. The recent graduate, who had just celebrated his birthday weeks earlier, was struck by two vehicles in the early hours of the morning on Robinson Road, according to police reports.
The devastating incident occurred around 2am when Butler was first hit by a dark-colored Acura whose driver reportedly stopped at the scene, only to be followed by a second vehicle that struck him again and fled. The young father, remembered by family as a persistent and joyful person, leaves behind a son he worked tirelessly to support.
His sister, Latoya Smith, revealed the family’s multidimensional struggle as they cope with both emotional trauma and financial hardship. The situation represents the third devastating blow to the family this year alone—their mother survived a previous hit-and-run accident months earlier, and their father subsequently passed away from illness, depleting both emotional reserves and financial resources.
Smith expressed frustration with the investigation’s progress, noting that despite initial police indications that the first driver was in custody and cooperating, the family has received no substantive updates regarding either driver’s status or potential charges. She emphasized the particular injustice of the second driver’s escape from accountability.
The family has turned to crowdfunding through GoFundMe to cover the $7,000 funeral expenses, a necessity compounded by Butler’s lack of life insurance. Smith articulated her belief that those responsible for the crash should contribute to these costs, describing the current situation as profoundly unfair to a family already pushed beyond its limits.
As the holiday season approaches, the family prepares for their first Christmas without Butler, whose absence has created a palpable void in their lives. Smith recounted how even the children in the family are struggling, particularly her own child who attended church weekly with Butler’s son.
Despite a challenging childhood that included time in children’s homes, Butler consistently pursued better opportunities for himself and his family. His sister remembered him as someone who “would keep trying and pushing, regardless of the situation,” noting that he died wearing his work clothes—a testament to his dedication.
At last report, the fundraising effort had garnered $320 toward its goal, while the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Butler’s death continues.