A wave of grief has swept through the Cumberland community following the tragic death of 6-year-old Jari Vontae Spencer, who was killed in a devastating hit-and-run crash early Sunday morning.
According to authorities, emergency responders were called to the 11500 block of East Washington Street at approximately 2:35 a.m. after a passerby reported a person lying in the roadway. When officers arrived, they discovered the young child suffering from critical injuries.
A responding officer immediately began CPR at the scene before paramedics arrived. Jari was rushed to Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, where medical staff made urgent efforts to save his life. Despite those efforts, he was later pronounced deceased.
Officials with the Marion County Coroner’s Office confirmed the child’s identity. Investigators believe Jari had left his home without his parents’ knowledge and wandered into the roadway, where he was struck by a vehicle that initially fled the scene.
The heartbreaking incident has left family members and loved ones devastated as they struggle to process the sudden and unimaginable loss. Those who knew Jari are remembering him as a bright, joyful child whose presence brought happiness and light to those around him.
Authorities also confirmed that Jari was diagnosed with autism, and investigators believe he may have been drawn toward familiar locations in the area at the time of the incident.
As the investigation progressed, law enforcement worked quickly to identify the suspect vehicle and locate the driver involved. Police later arrested 22-year-old Tyler Johnson in connection with the hit-and-run. He is currently in custody as the case remains under active investigation.
First responders and investigators described the scene as deeply emotional and extremely difficult, reflecting the impact the tragedy has had on both emergency personnel and the wider community.
In the days ahead, community members are expected to rally around Jari’s family, offering support, prayers, and comfort during this painful period. Loved ones say they will always remember his innocence, his smile, and the joy he brought into their lives.
Though his life was tragically cut short, Jari Vontae Spencer will be remembered with deep love and tenderness. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the entire community.