Justin Golden, a 21-year-old from Florida, received a 30-year prison sentence for running over and killing his 8-month-old son, Pablo Kye Golden, following an argument with the child’s mother on January 25, 2025, in Jacksonville. Golden pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter in Duval County court on December 19. Witnesses saw him place the infant on the roadway at an intersection before driving over him and fleeing the scene.
Court Proceedings
Golden admitted in court, “I was the monster who killed him,” expressing remorse while acknowledging his failure as a father. The judge rejected pleas for leniency from Golden’s family and defense, stating he violated his trust by showing less care than for a squirrel or lizard on the road. He credited Golden with 328 days served.
Incident Background
The argument reportedly involved baby wipes and money during a drive with Pablo in the car. Golden removed the child, placed him on the ground thinking it resembled trash to one witness, and ran him over in seconds. Pablo died at the hospital despite paramedic efforts.
Family Response
Pablo’s grandmother launched a GoFundMe, raising over $6,000 toward $10,000 for funeral costs, describing the family as heartbroken and seeking prayers. The mother did not attend sentencing.
