Father seeks answers in teen's death

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The father of a 17-year-old who was struck and killed on his way to Berkmar High School Wednesday morning said he wants to know why the driver didn't see his son cross the road.

"I sat there, and think about it. What if. What if this, what if that. It's what I go through all the time," Jerrell Waters said.

Waters told Channel 2's Tom Regan that his son Dakota had missed the bus and decided to skateboard to his school.

Police said he was walking across Lawrenceville Highway near James Road when an SUV stuck him in the center turn lane.

Police said the driver of the vehicle, Sharon Mitchell-Golden, of Stone Mountain, faces several charges including second-degree vehicular homicide.

The teen's father described his son as outgoing, generous and goal oriented.

"He had more friends, and everything else. And all the teachers liked him. He had a real smart sense of humor," Waters said.

Waters said Dakota is his second son to be killed in an automotive accident. His other son died 16 years ago. He said he's thankful for what he had with Dakota.

"At least I got him for 17 years. And all I got is good memories. I patted him on the hand, kissed his forehead and told him, 'I hope to see him again one day,'" Waters said.

Police said rainy weather may have been factor in the incident.

WSBTV