Hall County teen Jayden Ryan Wallace runs over teacher after 'rolling' house

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Several teenagers have been arrested after a late-night prank ended in a fatal incident in Hall County, authorities said.

According to the Hall County Sheriff's Office, five teens went to a home in the 4400 block of North Gate Drive to toilet-paper the yard. Investigators said the homeowner came outside while the group was still on the property.

Officials identified the homeowner as Jason Hughes, 40. As Hughes approached the street, deputies said the teens split into two vehicles and attempted to leave. During the commotion, Hughes tripped, fell into the roadway, and was struck by a vehicle driven by Jayden Ryan Wallace, 18.

Authorities said Wallace and the other teens stopped and tried to help Hughes while waiting for first responders. Hughes later died from his injuries.

Wallace faces felony charges of first-degree vehicular homicide and reckless driving, along with misdemeanor counts of criminal trespass and littering on private property.

The other teens — Elijah Tate Owens, Aiden Hucks, Ana Katherine Luque, and Ariana Cruz — all 18, were charged with misdemeanor criminal trespass and littering on private property. Officials said all five were arrested at the scene.

The Hall County School District confirmed Hughes was a teacher at North Hall High School, where he taught math. A post from the school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter said Hughes also coached golf.

In a statement, the school district said:

“Our hearts are broken. Jason Hughes was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a passionate teacher, mentor, and coach who was loved and respected by students and colleagues. He gave so much to so many in numerous ways. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife and family. We ask that the media and the public respect their privacy as they grieve.”