A grieving mother is pleading for the driver who struck and killed her son in a hit-and-run collision to come forward.
The crash happened on Route 53 near Tehle Road in Elwood on Nov. 24.
Illinois State Police said the victim, who was identified as 25-year-old De’Avion Smith, was hit while riding his bicycle. He wasn’t discovered until the following morning, according to authorities.
“I can’t accept that he’s really gone,” said Tashondra Smith, the victim’s mother. “It hurts, it really really hurts.”
Tashondra Smith said her son was full of life. The oldest of four loved dancing and playing basketball. Faith played an important role in his life, and he was actively involved in his church in Joliet.
“The fact that he had a close relationship with God gives us comfort, and it’s really helping us through this tragic time right now,” she said.
Smith said her son was dedicated and worked two jobs to get by. His car broke down, which is why Smith said her son rode his bicycle to work Monday evening. The driver who hit him, police said, was going southbound on Route 53.
“What are we doing here? What is society coming to, to where we won’t even stop and render aid when we know we’ve hurt someone?” she asked.
Investigators believe Smith was possibly hit sometime between 6 and 6:30 p.m. The vehicle is described as possibly a black 2007 to 2013 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck.
The front headlight and part of the bumper were found at the scene.
“Riding your bicycle shouldn’t cost you your life, you know, and the fact that it cost my son his life, it’s very tragic,” she said.
As the search continues for the driver, the community is coming together to honor Smith’s memory. His congregation at Second Baptist Church will hold a basketball fundraiser Tuesday night to help his family.
Juan Davis was his basketball coach and the founder of the FANG mentorship program.
“He was so respectful,” cried Juan Davis. “He was so respectful, one of those kids that was always respectful to me, always.”
De’Avion had been part of the congregation for at least two years, a beloved member who played the drums for the church.
Both his pastor and family want justice.
“You should do the right thing, the driver should do the right thing and come forward—that’s the right thing to do,” said Pastor Larry Tyler of Second Baptist Church.
Police are encouraging any witnesses or anyone with dashcam video to come forward. An online fundraiser has raised more than $3,000 for his family.
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