Young mom killed and toddler hurt in shocking road rage attack
Police describe tragic incident as a textbook case of road rage, leaving a family devastated.
A tragic road rage altercation in Savannah, Tennessee, has claimed the life of 24-year-old Zoe Johnson and left her 3-year-old daughter, Karsyn, critically injured. The suspect, Clint Newton, 42, now faces second-degree murder charges in a case that has shaken the local community.
What happened on Emmaus Way
On a quiet Thursday afternoon, tragedy struck on Emmaus Way near U.S. Route 64 in Savannah, Tennessee. Zoe Johnson and her young daughter were traveling together when a heated exchange with another driver spiraled into violence.
Authorities say the incident began with a minor driving dispute—someone allegedly cut someone else off. Over the course of four or five miles, tensions escalated until both vehicles turned onto Emmaus Way, where Clint Newton reportedly opened fire on Johnson’s car.
It’s just a classic old road rage, and it ended in the worst possible way,” said Hardin County Sheriff Johnny Alexander.
When police arrived, they found both Johnson and her daughter suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders rushed them to hospitals, but Johnson succumbed to her injuries at Hardin Medical Center.
Karsyn, critically injured, was airlifted to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in Nashville. Family updates revealed that the little girl had undergone surgery on her arm and would need a skin graft. Despite her injuries, Karsyn was reportedly alert and talking—a small sign of hope amid the heartbreak.
A grieving family turns to the community
The Johnson family is now grappling with an overwhelming loss and steep financial burdens. Loved ones have set up a GoFundMe page to cover medical and funeral expenses, as the family reportedly had no insurance.
“I am setting up the GoFundMe to help with medical expenses,” an aunt shared on the page. “This family will need all the help and support that you can give. If you can’t give, pray for this family because they will need it. These children will have to grow up without their mother.”
The fundraiser has already raised close to $17,000, reflecting the community’s outpouring of support for the grieving family.
Arrest and charges
Clint Newton, identified as the shooter, was apprehended shortly after the incident. Authorities confirmed he was unarmed at the time of his arrest.
Newton faces charges of second-degree murder, a conviction for which could carry up to 60 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
“This senseless act of anger has destroyed a family,” Sheriff Alexander stated. “We hope justice will be served.”
Road rage incidents have become a significant public safety concern. According to SafeMotorist, over the past seven years, road rage has been responsible for more than 200 deaths and 12,500 injuries in the U.S.
The tragic loss of Zoe Johnson underscores the devastating consequences of unchecked anger on the roads. Sheriff Alexander urged drivers to remain calm and avoid engaging with aggressive motorists.
Remembering Zoe and supporting Karsyn
Zoe Johnson was described by loved ones as a deeply caring mother and a beloved member of her family. She leaves behind two young daughters and a grieving community determined to ensure her memory lives on.
As Karsyn continues to recover, her family is focused on her healing while grappling with the painful void left by her mother’s untimely death.
The incident has left the Savannah community shaken but united in its support for the Johnson family. It also serves as a stark reminder to everyone of the importance of patience and compassion on the roads.
How you can help: Donations can be made through the family’s GoFundMe page, and prayers for Karsyn’s recovery are appreciated.
Road rage isn’t just a fleeting moment of anger—it can have life-altering consequences. Let this tragedy be a call to action for all drivers to prioritize safety and kindness behind the wheel.
