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Published on February 06, 2025
Miami Teen Omar Terry Faces Vehicular Homicide Charges After Fatal Collision with MotorcyclistSource: Google Street View

Omari Terry, a 17-year-old from Miami, turned himself into authorities this morning, facing additional charges in the wake of a crash that resulted in the death of motorcyclist John Koontz. Initially arrested on Tuesday for grand theft auto, Terry, who is reportedly unlicensed, now faces charges of vehicular homicide in a reckless manner and driving without a license, causing death, according to Local 10.

The fatal incident occurred early Tuesday morning, when the stolen red Kia Soul Terry was driving collided with Koontz's motorcycle at the intersection of Northwest Seventh Avenue and 20th Street. Police confirmed that Terry ran a red light before the collision, which led to the motorcycle and the car ending up in nearby bushes, WSVN reported. Koontz, 34, was a father of two, ages 2 and 7, and was delivering food at the time to provide extra income for his family. He was taken to Ryder Trauma Center where he succumbed to his injuries.

Following his death, Koontz's family has been enveloped in grief. "His life was his kids. His life was that," said Lizanette Koontz, John's wife, telling Local 10. She added that her husband had plans to return to school in the fall to study social work. The Koontz family has since set up a GoFundMe page to cover funeral expenses and to ensure financial stability for his children.

This is not Terry's first encounter with the law. Last October, he faced attempted murder charges following a drive-by shooting, though these charges were ultimately dismissed. Video obtained by 7News reportedly captured the incident. As noted by WSVN, despite his admission to being in the car, Terry denied firing any shots. Even with Terry surrendering to the police, Lizanette Koontz said the arrest doesn't feel like victory, indicating the profound loss that no charge or conviction could ever assuage.

Miami-Crime & Emergencies