Internet trends influenced many teenagers and some tried to replicate them to get more views. One such prank ended tragically for a high school teacher in the US state of Georgia, who died outside his home after being run over by a pickup truck after the prank went wrong, The New York Post reported.
Jason Hughes, a math teacher at North Hall High School, went outside his home on March 5 around 11:40 p.m. (local time) to investigate the commotion. The report, citing the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, said Hughes allegedly noticed a group of pranksters throwing or spreading toilet paper around his property.
The 40-year-old teacher walked over to the cars Jayden Wallace, 18, and four other teenagers were getting into as they tried to flee the area. Reports indicate that Hughes allegedly tripped and fell in the road as the 18-year-old drove away in his pickup truck and ran him over. But Wallace and two others reportedly stopped to check on Hughes and give him first aid until paramedics arrived and took him to hospital, where he died from his injuries on Friday (local time).
Charges against Wallace
The 18-year-old behind the wheel was charged with multiple charges, including first-degree vehicular manslaughter, reckless driving, misdemeanor battery and littering on private property. In addition to Wallace, four other teenagers, identified as Elijiah Owens, Aiden Hucks, Ana Katherine Luque and Ariana Cruz, all 18, were arrested outside Hughes’ home and charged with criminal trespassing and littering.
The 18-year-old driver is being held on $1,950 bond, according to jail records.
Hughes Memorial
Hughes, who also worked as a golf coach for the school district, was remembered for his deep commitment to his family and his profession.
“We are devastated by this loss. Jason Hughes was a caring husband, a dedicated father and a dedicated teacher, mentor and coach who was admired by students and colleagues alike,” the district said in a statement. “He touched countless lives in many ways and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.”
Hughes is survived by his wife, Laura, a maths teacher at the same school, and their two children.
A memorial service for Hughes was held Saturday at North Hall High School, where students and staff gathered to mourn his loss.
“He had a connection with so many people, and his death deeply affected the community because he played such an important role in it,” sophomore Olivia Williams said. “He was very outgoing, regularly attended events and was always there to encourage others, no matter what was going on.”
However, it remains unclear why Hughes’ home was the target of the apparent prank.
