Joshua Driver, a 16‑year‑old sophomore at J.R. Tucker High School in Henrico County, Virginia, was struck and killed in a DUI hit‑and‑run crash on West Broad Street early Saturday morning, May 16, 2026. Police arrested 41‑year‑old John Daniel Bruehl, who is being held without bond on charges of DUI and hit‑and‑run.
The crash occurred around 3 a.m. near a construction zone along the 7000 block of West Broad Street (Route 250), close to Willard Road and not far from Glenside Drive and Hungary Spring Road. Investigators said Joshua’s body was discovered about three hours later in a grassy area along the shoulder of the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene by Henrico Police and emergency responders.
Authorities confirmed that Bruehl fled the scene after the collision. He was later arrested and charged with driving under the influence and felony hit‑and‑run. Police also noted that Bruehl had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in Hanover County. He is currently being held at Henrico County Jail without bond.
Joshua’s mother, Sharon Driver, said she last saw her son on Friday evening after he and his brother went to Arby’s for soda and spent time in the Willow Lawn area. His brother returned home on the last bus, but Joshua missed it and was likely walking back when the crash happened. Sharon expressed devastation, saying, “He didn’t even grow up. He didn’t become an adult… It killed my son.”
Family and friends described Joshua as outgoing, kind, and deeply social. He loved riding the GRTC bus system and was known for his friendliness and ability to connect with people. His community is mourning the sudden loss of a young man whose life was cut short before adulthood. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family cover funeral expenses.
Henrico Police emphasized that the case is a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. They urged motorists to use designated drivers, public transportation, or ride services if consuming alcohol. Officers stressed that safety must remain a top priority, especially during busy weekends and near construction zones.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact Officer T. Holmes at 804‑501‑5000, Metro Richmond Crime Stoppers at 804‑780‑1000, or submit tips anonymously at P3Tips.com.
