New memorial honors 14-year-old boy struck and killed by driver

MILTON, Fla. ( WKRG ) — A new memorial stands to honor the life of a teenage boy who was struck and killed, and to remind people behind the wheel to drive safely.

One of five kids in the McKenney household, Myson wanted to dedicate his life to service, an active member of the NJROTC program.

Myson McKenney's most recent high school photo. (Courtesy of Robert McKenney)

Myson's father, Robert, was still too emotional to speak on camera, but in conversations over the phone, it was easy to tell he was proud of his son.

"Myson wanted to be an American hero in the Navy but instead gets to be a hero with every safe crossing," McKenney said.

The new memorial is at the intersection of Magnolia and Byrom Street, where Myson died. The city is using the tragedy as an opportunity to help save other lives.

"We're hopeful that this sign serves as a reminder for the public to just be more aware of their surroundings and slow down. This is becoming a busier and busier area," Mayor Heather Lindsay said.

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, more than 7,000 pedestrians across the U.S. were killed after being hit by a vehicle last year alone. That statistic is growing.

According to the Santa Rosa 911 Communications Chief, 41 pedestrians, walking and biking, have been hit by a car in Santa Rosa County.

The McKenney family fully supports the city's efforts.

"His beautiful memorial is a reminder to be safe and make his accident the last," McKenney said.