Hughey Hoak Obituary, Death; Police: Hit-and-run driver kills pedestrian in Hinesville

Hughey Hoak Obituary, Death:  Authorities in Hinesville are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident that left a pedestrian dead over the weekend. The collision occurred on Saturday along Highway 196 near Frozen Paradise, according to local police.

Officials identified the victim as 52-year-old Hughey Hoak. Police say Hoak was walking in the area when he was struck by a vehicle that immediately fled the scene, leaving him fatally injured. Despite emergency response efforts, Hoak did not survive.

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing a dark-colored truck or SUV involved in the crash. The vehicle was last observed speeding away after striking the pedestrian. The driver did not stop to provide aid or report the accident, prompting a citywide search for the suspect vehicle.

Not long after the collision, authorities located a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses. The vehicle, believed to have been the one involved in the deadly hit-and-run, was found abandoned and has since been seized as part of the ongoing investigation. Forensic teams will examine it for evidence that may lead to identifying the driver responsible.

The Hinesville Police Department confirmed that its Traffic Accident Investigation Unit has taken the lead in the case. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, gathering forensic evidence, and conducting interviews with potential witnesses to piece together the circumstances leading up to the crash. The investigation also aims to determine why the driver left the scene without offering help to the victim.

Law enforcement officials have emphasized the seriousness of hit-and-run cases, stressing that leaving the scene of a fatal accident is a criminal offense. They expressed determination to hold the driver accountable and provide justice for Hoak and his family.

As part of their appeal to the public, police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking with individuals who may have seen the collision, noticed a suspicious vehicle in the area at the time, or have any knowledge about the driver’s identity. Residents are encouraged to call the Hinesville Police Department at 912-368-8211 with tips.

The sudden loss has shaken the community, as Hoak is remembered as a 52-year-old man whose life was tragically cut short by the reckless actions of a fleeing driver. Family and friends are grieving his death, while neighbors and local residents have voiced frustration over the dangers posed by hit-and-run drivers.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety on busy roadways like Highway 196, where fast-moving traffic and limited visibility can increase the risk of serious accidents. Police are reminding drivers to remain alert, cautious, and responsible, especially during nighttime hours when pedestrians are more difficult to see.

While the investigation continues, the Hinesville Police Department has pledged to pursue every lead until the driver is identified and brought to justice. In the meantime, the community is left mourning Hughey Hoak, whose untimely death has underscored the devastating consequences of careless driving and the importance of accountability.