Bicyclist Identified as Johnathan Mills Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash in Smith County, Texas; Authorities Search for Driver

Bicyclist Identified as Johnathan Mills Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash in Smith County, Texas; Authorities Search for Driver

SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Heartbreak and outrage rippled through the Smith County community early Thursday morning after a fatal hit-and-run claimed the life of Johnathan Mills, a 38-year-old bicyclist, along State Highway 64 East near Old Oak Bay Road.

Emergency crews responded to the scene around 2:30 a.m., after a passerby reported seeing a bicycle and an unresponsive man on the side of the highway. When first responders arrived, they found Mills suffering from severe injuries caused by the impact of a vehicle. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to officials from the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Mills, a longtime Smith County resident, was known by friends and neighbors as an avid cyclist who regularly used that route for his early morning rides. Investigators say he was riding eastbound along the shoulder of Highway 64, wearing visible reflectors and equipped with bike lights, when he was struck from behind by a vehicle that immediately fled the scene.

Investigation Ongoing

Deputies, DPS troopers, and crash scene experts closed off the area for several hours Thursday morning as they worked to gather evidence, including vehicle fragments and tire tracks left behind. Law enforcement believes the suspect’s vehicle likely sustained noticeable front-end damage during the impact.

“This was a cruel and senseless act,” said Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith. “Whoever hit Mr. Mills chose to drive off and leave him there to die. That person needs to be found, and we’re calling on the public to help us do it.”

Investigators are reviewing traffic and security camera footage from nearby businesses and residences, and have urged auto shops and body repair businesses to report any vehicles brought in recently with suspicious damage consistent with a collision.

🚲 Remembering Johnathan Mills

Johnathan Mills was more than a cyclist—he was a father, friend, and neighbor who brought joy and positivity to everyone who knew him. Friends say he worked in maintenance for a local school district and often cycled to work to stay healthy and clear his mind.

“He was quiet but kind,” said family friend Renee Clayton. “He never bothered anyone, and he loved riding. He always wore his reflective gear—he was careful. He didn’t deserve this.”

Residents of the area have begun building a small roadside memorial at the crash site, placing candles, flowers, and a white “ghost bike” to honor Mills’ life and draw attention to the dangers cyclists face.

Authorities Urge Public to Come Forward

The Smith County Sheriff’s Office and Texas DPS are pleading with anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. to come forward. Tips can be made by calling (903) 566-6600 or anonymously through East Texas Crime Stoppers at (903) 597-2833.

“We owe it to Mr. Mills and his family to find who did this,” said DPS Trooper Chris West. “If you know anything—even the smallest detail—please speak up.”

🚧 Renewed Safety Concerns

Mills’ death has renewed conversations around road safety for cyclists in East Texas, where many roads lack proper bike lanes or protective barriers. Advocates and family members are calling for increased enforcement of traffic laws, improved visibility, and greater awareness of cyclists’ rights.

“People think it’s just another accident,” said local cyclist Trevor Vaughn, “but it’s a person. A human being who didn’t make it home.”

As the investigation presses on and the community mourns the loss of Johnathan Mills, many are channeling their grief into a unified call for justice and accountability. His death is not just a personal tragedy—it’s a wake-up call, and his memory now stands as a symbol of the urgent need for safer roads in Texas.