Milwaukee, Wis. — A man was sentenced to two decades in prison following a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a four-year-old girl and left her mother severely injured. Donald Crayton, 33, faced a Milwaukee County Circuit Court judge who issued the sentence and added 15 years of extended supervision, prohibiting him from ever driving again.
Crayton’s legal troubles stem from a tragic event on April 30, 2024, when Zekani Hymes-Wilson and her mother, Gloria Hymes, were struck by a vehicle while crossing North Teutonia Avenue. The crash occurred during a visit to a local pizza shop, just a short walk from their home. Surveillance footage captured the moment, revealing Crayton—who was living with Hymes at the time—briefly returning to the scene with his sister before fleeing in his car.
Despite attempts by emergency responders, Zekani was pronounced dead at the scene. Hymes sustained significant injuries, including fractures to her leg bones. As she was transported to Froedtert Hospital, she identified Crayton as the driver responsible for the collision.
In the aftermath, law enforcement utilized the evidence from the crash site and video recordings to trace the vehicle associated with Crayton. Investigators discovered a Chevrolet Impala abandoned nearby that had been registered to him. Further examination revealed that it bore signs consistent with having been involved in the incident. Crayton was later apprehended following a high-speed chase in a different vehicle driven by his girlfriend, Adriana Merkel.
During sentencing, the judge highlighted Crayton’s concerning driving history, noting that he had never been legally licensed and had prior offenses linked to driving while suspended. This troubling record contributed to the judge’s skepticism about Crayton’s expressions of remorse during the court proceedings. His previous conviction for operating a vehicle while suspended, which resulted in another fatal accident in 2019, underscored the pattern of reckless behavior behind the wheel.
In a plea agreement, Crayton admitted to second-degree reckless homicide and two counts of hit-and-run, resolving the most serious charges against him. Other charges were dismissed but were considered in the court’s deliberation of his sentencing. While Crayton’s legal battles are now concluded, they left a profound impact on the community, which mourned the loss of young Zekani.
In the wake of the tragedy, family and friends held a vigil, sharing memories of Zekani as a vibrant child who loved playing with dolls and spending time with family. Though a legal resolution has been reached, the emotional repercussions of the crash on the Hymes family and the community at large will continue to resonate for many years.
As Crayton begins his lengthy prison term, family members of the victims expressed hope for healing and a commitment to advocating for road safety and accountability.