Richmond Crash Turns Deadly as Larry Johnson Killed and Driver Later Arrested in Hit-and-Run Case

 Richmond authorities are continuing to investigate a fatal early-morning crash that claimed the life of 35-year-old Larry Johnson, who was a passenger in a single-vehicle collision on Warwick Road. The incident, which occurred just before dawn, has led to felony charges and an ongoing review by the Richmond Police Department’s Crash Team.

Police say the crash happened at approximately 3:43 a.m. on May 6 in the 5200 block of Warwick Road. When officers arrived, they found a heavily damaged vehicle that had struck a tree. Inside the passenger seat, responders located Johnson, who was unresponsive and not breathing. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to investigators, the driver of the vehicle had fled before police arrived, leaving the crash site and prompting an immediate search. The Richmond Police Department launched a detailed investigation, working through physical evidence and witness leads in an effort to identify the individual behind the wheel at the time of the collision.

Detectives later identified William Sumner Jr., 34, of Chesterfield, as the suspected driver. Authorities said he was located at a nearby motel and taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with felony hit-and-run in connection with the fatal crash, and officials have indicated that additional charges may still follow as the case develops.

The crash scene remained under investigation for several hours as officers documented evidence, reviewed vehicle damage, and reconstructed the sequence of events. Investigators are continuing to analyze how the vehicle left the roadway and what factors may have contributed to the collision with the tree.

Richmond Police have emphasized that the investigation is still active and ongoing. Officials are asking anyone with additional information about the crash to come forward, either directly through Crash Team investigators or anonymously through Crime Stoppers. Authorities believe additional details from witnesses may help clarify the moments leading up to the fatal impact.

For those who knew Larry Johnson, the news has brought shock and grief as friends and family try to process the sudden loss. Community members have expressed sympathy online, noting the emotional toll of losing a loved one in such unexpected circumstances and extending support to those closest to him during this difficult time.

As the case continues to move through the legal system, investigators are expected to release further updates once additional evidence is reviewed. For now, Richmond residents are left with unanswered questions and a reminder of how quickly an early morning drive can turn into a tragic and life-changing event.