Therman W. Wallace Jr., 9, of Rochester, Pennsylvania, passed away on April 24, 2026, after a tragic hit-and-run incident that has deeply affected his family, school, and the wider community.
Born on June 15, 2016, in Magnolia, Arkansas, Therman was the beloved son of Therman W. Wallace Sr. and Alicia M. Belanger Wallace.
Therman was a third-grade student at Rochester Elementary School, where teachers and classmates remember him as a bright, energetic, and friendly child who could easily make connections with anyone he met.
He was known for his outgoing personality and his habit of greeting people with a cheerful “Hey Bruh,” a phrase that reflected his easygoing and welcoming nature.
Outside of school, Therman enjoyed a wide range of activities that kept him active and engaged. He loved playing video games such as Minecraft and Roblox, often spending time building, exploring, and creating in digital worlds.
He also enjoyed playing UNO with family and friends, a game that brought laughter and competition into his home life. In addition to indoor activities, Therman had a strong love for the outdoors.
He enjoyed fishing, riding bicycles, and spending time on four-wheelers with his brothers and friends, creating memories that his family now holds close.
Therman is survived by his parents and a large extended family, including his brothers Cody, Alex, and Austin, and his sisters Mia, Savannah, Alyssa, and Ali.
He is also remembered by his maternal grandparents, Lisa and Charles Hartman, his paternal grandmother Jammie Johnson, and his paternal grandfathers, Thomas Johnson and Ricky Wallace.
His family described him as a child who never met a stranger and considered everyone he met to be a friend.
According to police reports, the incident occurred in the late afternoon of April 24, 2026, at an intersection in Rochester.
Authorities stated that Therman was riding his bicycle when he was struck by a vehicle that left the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators later used traffic camera footage to identify a black truck believed to be involved in the collision. The vehicle was traced to Thomas Earl Cole, 53, of Monaca, Pennsylvania.
Police reports indicate that Cole initially denied being involved, claiming he had been at home drinking.
He later admitted to being in the area but stated he believed he had struck something like rocks rather than a child.
Authorities reported signs of intoxication during questioning and later charged him with multiple offenses, including homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence and related DUI charges.
He is being held without bail as the case proceeds.
The Rochester community has mourned Therman’s death with vigils and tributes held near his school. Rochester Area School District officials expressed deep sorrow and encouraged families to support children coping with the loss.
The family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Mothers Against Drunk Driving in Pennsylvania or the Tanner Dietrich Foundation.
Therman’s obituary highlights his joyful spirit, kindness, and love for life. His family has planned visitation services on May 2, 2026, followed by a funeral service at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.
He is remembered as a child who brought happiness to those around him and left a lasting impact despite his young age.
