10-year-old girl was behind the wheel of truck that killed 6-year-old boy on Oakwood Drive in Lufkin; Clinton Earl Johnson Jr. arrest & charges

A tragic accident in Lufkin, Texas, has led to the death of a 6-year-old boy and the arrest of 45-year-old Clinton Earl Johnson Jr. after a 10-year-old girl, allegedly under his supervision, was found to be behind the wheel of a pickup truck that struck and killed the child. 

The incident occurred on Oakwood Drive, a residential neighborhood that was turned into a scene of heartbreak and disbelief.According to Lufkin police, the fatal accident happened when the young girl drove the truck onto the street and hit the boy, who was playing outside. 

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite efforts to save him, the 6-year-old succumbed to his injuries. His identity has not been released to the public out of respect for the family’s privacy.Further investigation revealed that Clinton Earl Johnson Jr. had knowingly allowed the 10-year-old to drive the vehicle. 

Authorities quickly took him into custody, and he now faces a series of serious charges, including criminally negligent homicide and endangering a child. Police say the situation was entirely preventable and stemmed from reckless behavior on Johnson’s part.Neighbors and community members expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the tragedy. 

Many questioned how a child was ever permitted to operate a vehicle and called for greater accountability. Lufkin Independent School District officials have confirmed that grief counselors have been made available to students affected by the incident.Johnson remains in custody as the investigation continues. 

Prosecutors are expected to pursue the maximum penalties under Texas law, given the nature of the offense and the young age of both the victim and the driver. The case has sparked renewed concerns about child supervision and vehicle safety, particularly in family and neighborhood settings. A candlelight vigil for the boy is being planned by local residents.