He was just doing his job. On New Year's Eve, Amazon driver William Johnson was walking back to his van on Union Blvd when a pickup truck slammed into him at 45 mph — throwing him into the air.

The driver, Byron C. Carter, got out. He stood over William as he lay in the street. He screamed at him — “why was I in the middle of the road” — then ran back to his truck and sped off toward West Florissant, leaving William bleeding in the street.

Two women who saw it happen pulled over and helped William into the van. Police, ambulance, and fire arrived. He was taken to the ICU, where he had emergency surgery that night.

The injuries: surgery on his left foot. His toenail fell off. An ongoing knee problem. Whiplash in his neck. Damage to his lower back and right hand. And PTSD that leaves him with extreme anxiety to this day. He is still on workers' compensation and cannot work.

Carter was charged with a felony — Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Physical Injury (Case No. 2622-CR01757-01). A plea hearing is set for Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM before Judge Jason Mark Sengheiser, Division 18, Carnahan Courthouse.

That's why this petition matters right now. A driver who hits a working man and flees the scene should not get a lenient deal behind closed doors. William's voice must be heard before any plea is accepted.

We call on the St. Louis Circuit Attorney's Office and the Court: ensure full accountability. No leniency for leaving a man in the street.

Sign. Share. Make them listen. #WJAD — William Johnson Amazon Driver.