JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — A tragic hit-and-run crash on Sunday evening has left a community in mourning following the loss of Danny Davis, 57, whose life was taken along West Market Street. Authorities say Kayla McCown, 32, has been arrested in connection with the incident, which occurred in the presence of no known witnesses and without any initial 911 calls.
According to the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD), officers were alerted around 7:30 p.m. after a passing Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputy reported seeing a person in the roadway who appeared to have been struck and killed by a vehicle near the intersection of West Market Street and South Center Street. By the time law enforcement arrived, the vehicle involved had already fled the scene.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) later identified the victim as Danny Davis, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigators determined that Davis was crossing West Market Street, though not within a marked crosswalk, when he was struck by a 2023 Subaru Ascent driven by Kayla McCown. Authorities confirmed that McCown was not injured during the crash.
With no witnesses and no emergency calls reporting the incident, investigators relied heavily on technology and interagency cooperation. The JCPD reviewed traffic camera footage that captured the crash and provided a description of the vehicle involved. That information was entered into the department’s Flock Safety license plate reader system, which successfully identified a license plate associated with the suspect vehicle.
Within approximately 90 minutes of the initial report, officers with the THP and JCPD were able to locate and arrest McCown around 9 p.m. The THP filed charges including leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death, duty to give information and render aid, and immediate notice of an accident. The investigation remains ongoing.
Beyond the arrest and investigation lies a heartbreaking loss. Danny Davis was more than a statistic or a name in a report—he was a person deeply loved and known by those around him. His sudden passing has left family, friends, and the community grappling with grief and unanswered questions. A life was taken in an instant, leaving behind memories, love, and a void that cannot be filled.
This tragedy also serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of accountability, compassion, and safety on our roadways. No one should ever be left alone after being struck, and no family should have to endure the pain of such a loss.
As Johnson City mourns, we ask for prayers, comfort, and strength for the loved ones of Danny Davis during this incredibly difficult time. May they find peace in cherished memories and support in the community standing beside them.
Rest in peace, Danny Davis. You will always be remembered, deeply missed, and forever honored.
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