The family of a 14-year-old killed in a hit-and-run in McKinney is begging the driver who fled the scene of the crash to come forward and face justice.
Jamir Dabney was hit while riding his bike around 6:15 PM Saturday at the intersection of Lake Forest Drive and Highlands Drive.
A football player who was energetic as a firecracker: that was Jamir Dabney. He was an Evans Middle School student whose loved ones said should still be here today.
“This is my grandson, my Valentine’s Day baby,” said Jerrilyn Dabney, grandmother of the victim. “I’d like to know whoever did this to him, to leave him laying out here to die.”
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On Saturday evening, Dabney was riding his bike home from playing basketball when police said a dark-colored four-door sedan crashed into him and didn’t stop.
Driving through moments later, Faithe Stallings saw Dabney lying in the road.
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“Pulled over to stop and render aid and initiated CPR and we realized he didn’t have a pulse,” said Stallings.
Jamir Dabney died from his injuries at the hospital.
In the 24 hours after his death, the community created a memorial at the scene of the crash, with a constant stream of people coming out to place flowers, notes and other tributes.
“He didn’t deserve this, he was only 14, he still had a lot to live for and he just really didn’t deserve all this,” said Princeton resident Anali Mondragon.
As day turned to night on Sunday, those who knew and loved Jamir Dabney leaned on each other, lit candles and said prayers for the star athlete and friend they lost too soon.
“If you did do this, and if you do have a heart, please come forward,” said Jeremiah Dabney, the victim’s oldest brother. “Justice for Jamir.”
Loved ones say since the incident, Jamir Dabney’s mother Megan has been too shattered to speak.
Instead, they’ve become her voice, calling on the suspect in this fatal crash to help their family start finding peace.
“Please come forward, if anybody’s seen something, say something,” said Jerrilyn Dabney. “Our lives are forever changed.”
A fundraiser online has already raised nearly $40,000 for Jamir Dabney’s family to help with funeral arrangements.
"This is a devastating tragedy for the family and our community," said McKinney Police Chief Joe Ellenburg. "We extend our deepest condolences to the family and remain committed to finding the individual responsible for this terrible incident."
Police are asking anyone with information to contact the McKinney Crime Tip Line at 972-547-3480 or email crimetipline@mckinneytexas.org.
