Titusville Man Sentenced to Prison for Fatal Hit and Run Crash: Bruce Calkins Identified as Victim

Accident – Death – Obituary News : COCOA, Fla. — A Titusville resident has been sentenced to prison for fleeing the scene of a fatal crash that occurred in 2019. The incident took place on January 23, 2019, when the Cocoa Police Department received reports of a man found unresponsive on West King Street in Cocoa. The victim, identified as 61-year-old Bruce Calkins from Rockledge, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Upon arrival, Cocoa Police Department patrol officers discovered Calkins lying in the median. Alongside his body, they also found a bumper from a black vehicle. This discovery prompted a search for the driver of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run.

Approximately 30 minutes later, a Brevard County deputy stopped a black 2014 Acura near U.S. 1 and State Road 405. The vehicle had noticeable front-end damage, including a missing front bumper. Further investigation revealed that the bumper found at the crash scene matched the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the Acura.

The driver of the Acura was identified as 38-year-old Jacqueice Witcher. At the time of the incident, Witcher was arrested for driving under the influence, while authorities continued their investigation into Calkins’ death.

Forensic analysis of glass fragments, blood, and other evidence collected from both Calkins and Witcher confirmed that Witcher was indeed driving the Acura at the time of the crash. A Traffic Homicide Investigator stated, “There was blood and tissue evidence on the driver’s shirt that matched the victim’s DNA profile. This evidence, along with video evidence, solidified the suspect’s involvement in the hit-and-run, as they immediately fled the scene after hitting the victim.”

Months later, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office fugitive task force apprehended Witcher after a warrant for his arrest was issued. Witcher pleaded guilty in November of this year, and just last week, he was sentenced to 11 years in prison, followed by eight years of supervised probation.

In addition to the prison sentence, Witcher was ordered to pay over $3,000 in court costs and nearly another $3,000 in restitution. This ruling serves as a significant consequence for his actions, highlighting the severity of hit-and-run incidents and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions.

The case of Jacqueice Witcher underscores the critical role law enforcement plays in holding individuals accountable for their actions. Through diligent investigation and forensic analysis, authorities were able to gather the necessary evidence to secure a conviction in this tragic hit-and-run case.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of the legal system, it is crucial to remember the value of safety and responsibility on the road. Hit-and-run incidents not only result in devastating loss for the victims and their families but also undermine the trust and well-being of our communities.

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