Tyron Davis, a 26-year-old Connecticut man, faces serious charges including second-degree manslaughter and three counts of first-degree assault for a fatal Christmas Day 2025 hit-and-run crash in Hartford that killed 14-year-old Malachi James. Authorities state that Davis, driving a rented Tesla Cybertruck, veered into the wrong lane on Cornwall Street, causing a head-on collision with the victim’s family vehicle around 9:18 p.m.. He fled the scene on foot but later turned himself in after investigators used vehicle footage, DNA evidence, and facial recognition to identify him.​
Incident Details
The crash demolished both the Cybertruck and the Toyota Camry carrying James and his family, who required extrication by firefighters. Dashcam footage from the Cybertruck captured Davis passing another vehicle in the southbound lane without returning, leading directly to the collision. A witness trailing in another rented vehicle confirmed Davis as the driver and described his minor injuries before fleeing.​
Charges and Arrest
Davis surrendered on January 7, 2026, and is held at Hartford Correctional Center on a $2.5 million bond, increased during arraignment due to prior pending cases involving assault, reckless driving, and drugs. Prosecutors highlighted video evidence and the driver’s “blatant disregard for human life,” noting severe injuries to a 3-year-old and ongoing risks to another victim. No plea was entered at his initial court appearance.​
Victim Remembrance
Malachi James, described in a family GoFundMe as a “vibrant” teen with an “infectious spirit,” died shortly after the crash despite hospital transport. His mother expressed grief at a vigil, calling his death “not right,” while fundraisers support the family.​
