Columbia Woman Arrested for Deadly Hit-and-Run

News Summary

A Columbia woman, Tierra F. Johnson, has been arrested in connection with a tragic hit-and-run accident that resulted in the death of 71-year-old John Corbett. The incident occurred on December 19, 2024, in which Johnson failed to stop after striking Corbett with her Ford truck. She is facing serious charges including hit-and-run involving death, and a community is mourning the loss of the pedestrian. An investigation is underway as authorities seek additional information regarding the incident.

Columbia Woman Arrested After Deadly Hit-and-Run Accident

In a tragic turn of events this past holiday season, a Columbia woman has been arrested following a hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a 71-year-old pedestrian. The incident unfolded on December 19, 2024, as John Corbett was walking in the 5400 block of Farrow Road just before twilight.

Who Was Involved?

The authorities have identified the woman involved as 31-year-old Tierra F. Johnson. According to the Columbia Police Department, Johnson was behind the wheel of a Ford pickup truck—likely a model ranging from 2013 to 2017 Ford F150—when it struck Corbett. Sadly, Corbett was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, leaving the community in mourning.

Witness reports indicate that Johnson’s pickup truck was missing the driver’s side hubcap and featured dark window tint. Unfortunately, after the collision, Johnson did not stop to render aid or notify the police, a very grave decision that led to serious charges against her.

What Are the Charges?

Tierra F. Johnson has been slapped with charges that include hit-and-run accident involving death and failure to give information and render aid. Just a few weeks after the incident, Johnson faced a judge at a court hearing on January 3, where she was granted a surety bond of $75,000. While this bond allows her temporary release, the community is left grappling with the implications of this tragedy.

Investigation Underway

The Columbia Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit has taken the reins on this investigation, working closely with the Richland County Coroner’s Office. The police are actively seeking information from the public, hoping anyone with details about the incident or the vehicle involved will step forward. Given the serious nature of the charges and the impact on the community, it’s crucial for the police to piece together a comprehensive picture of what happened that evening.

Community Impact

This incident has shaken Columbia, drawing attention to the ongoing issue of pedestrian safety in the area. Neighbors and community members are expressing their disbelief and sorrow over the loss of John Corbett, a man who was merely taking a walk when a tragic accident turned fatal. It’s a reminder of just how fleeting life can be and how quickly a normal day can turn into a nightmare.

What Happens Next?

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on holding Johnson accountable for her actions that night. The law is clear, and a hit-and-run charge, especially one involving a fatality, carries serious consequences. For the family and friends of John Corbett, the road to healing will be long and painful, but justice often serves as a crucial first step in that process.

For now, Johnson’s next court date remains unknown, as the legal process unfolds. As the community rallies in support of Corbett’s family, there’s a collective hope that incidents like this will serve as a catalyst for change, bringing more awareness to pedestrian safety and responsibility on the roads.

In the days to come, police are encouraging everyone to remain vigilant, urging anyone who might have witnessed the accident or has any information about Johnson or her vehicle to come forward. After all, it takes a village to keep its members safe, and the streets of Columbia deserve to be safe for everyone.