Tallahassee Driver Sentenced for Deadly Hit-and-Run of FSU Cyclist

Wacissa Springs Road, Jefferson County, Florida, USA - On June 16, 2025, the legal repercussions of a tragic hit-and-run incident continued to reverberate through the community. John Horne, a Tallahassee resident, was sentenced to a lengthy 20 years in prison following his conviction for DUI manslaughter. His crime is closely tied to the devastating loss of Jake Boykin, a talented Florida State University student and a national championship cyclist, who was killed in September 2023, a true tragedy that highlighted the urgent need for road safety.

The heart-wrenching incident occurred on Wacissa Springs Road, where Horne struck Boykin with his truck and then fled the scene. After a month-long manhunt, he ultimately turned himself in to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. The circumstances surrounding the crash were alarming; beer bottles were discovered in Horne’s vehicle, and his blood alcohol level was reported to be three times over the legal limit. In addition to his prison sentence, Horne received an additional year of probation for leaving the scene of a crash involving death, showcasing the legal system’s firm stance against such reckless behavior.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Statistics

Florida’s hit-and-run crisis is a significant concern, with incidents accounting for nearly 25% of all crashes statewide. In 2023 alone, 104,273 hit-and-run crashes were recorded, a figure that reflects a slight decrease of less than 1% from the previous year. The gravity of this issue is emphasized by the alarming statistics showing that these incidents resulted in 271 fatalities, including 159 pedestrians and 47 bicyclists. Vulnerable road users are particularly at risk, making the importance of adhering to traffic laws all the more critical.

The legal framework in Florida is designed to address hit-and-run offenses vigorously. Under Florida law, drivers are required to stop immediately after an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death. The Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act has further intensified penalties for those who leave the scene. For instance, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death can result in a mandatory minimum of four years in prison, escalating up to 30 years, depending on the circumstances. This legal backdrop serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability on the roads.

The Fallout of Horne’s Actions

Despite the legal consequences Horne now faces, the impact of his actions extends far beyond the courtroom. The community mourns the loss of Jake Boykin, who represented the brightest aspects of youth and talent—an athlete with a promising future snuffed out far too soon. Each statistic on hit-and-run crashes represents a life altered or ended, underscoring the irreversible consequences these actions can bring.

Moreover, the case presents a valuable lesson about the dire consequences of driving under the influence and the critical need for responsible behavior behind the wheel. With more than 81% of fatal hit-and-run incidents occurring at dawn, dusk, or nighttime, the emphasis on safe driving is more relevant than ever.

Resources and Reporting

Florida residents are encouraged to report hit-and-run incidents promptly. For incidents involving property damage only, drivers must remain at the scene and provide contact information or file a crash report. The Florida Highway Patrol can be reached at *FHP (*347) or anonymously through Florida Crime Stoppers at **TIPS (**8477), providing essential avenues for public involvement in road safety.

The tragic end of Jake Boykin serves as a haunting reminder of the crucial role that responsible driving plays in safeguarding lives. As the legal wheels turn in John Horne’s case, it’s a moment for all of us to reflect on our responsibilities as drivers and the impact our decisions can have on the community at large.