Willie Howard Killed in Douglas Hit-and-Run; Suspect Arrested
On February 13, 2025, a tragic hit-and-run incident occurred in Douglas, Georgia, resulting in the death of Willie Anthony Howard. The accident took place at 6:09 a.m. on Bowens Mill Road near the entrance to the Walmart Supercenter, where Howard was struck by a red Dodge Dakota pickup truck traveling westbound. According to the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, the driver, identified as 31-year-old Eloy Garcia of Douglas, fled the scene without reporting the crash. Howard was promptly transported to Coffee Regional Medical Center, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
Following the incident, a collaborative investigation was launched by the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas Police Department, and Georgia State Patrol. Their diligent efforts culminated in Garcia’s arrest in the early hours of February 15, 2025, when deputies located both the suspect and the vehicle involved. Sheriff Fred Cole commended the law enforcement team, noting, “In the first 48 hours of an investigation, we have the best chance of solving any case. This individual was captured as a result of our team’s efforts. They worked tirelessly, without rest, to give this case the attention it deserves.” Garcia is currently detained in the Coffee County Jail as the community grieves Howard’s loss.
