Little Rock, AR — A family is grieving after a tragic accident claimed the life of James Burgess, a local man who was killed in a high-speed collision on Monday evening. The incident occurred at approximately 5:00 PM when Burgess, who was parked and taking a break from work, was struck by a vehicle traveling at an estimated 90 mph in a 30 mph zone.
The driver, identified as Hayley Strozyk, was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the crash. Authorities believe she was driving 60 mph over the speed limit when she slammed into Burgess’s vehicle. Tragically, Burgess is reported to have died on impact.
Despite the gravity of the incident, Strozyk was not immediately booked into jail. According to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, she was released on house arrest due to overcrowding at the county jail—a decision that has sparked outrage among the community and the Burgess family.
Family members and friends of James Burgess are calling for justice, arguing that the charges against Strozyk should include vehicular manslaughter and driving while under the influence. They are urging the public to share their story, in the hope that increased attention will prompt action from local authorities.
“This is unacceptable,” said a close family friend. “James Burgess was killed, and the person responsible is at home with her family, unharmed.”
The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the situation. Meanwhile, the community continues to rally for justice, demanding that the severity of the crime be fully acknowledged and that the responsible party be held accountable.
