Georgia: The family of a high school teacher in Georgia who died after a prank went wrong has appealed to authorities to drop criminal charges against the teenagers involved. According to a report by The New York Times, the teacher’s family believes he would not have wanted the students’ lives to be permanently affected by the tragedy.

The victim, Jason Hughes, 40, was a teacher who died after being struck by a pickup truck while confronting teenagers who had covered his trees with toilet paper, a prank commonly carried out by students in the United States.

The pickup truck was reportedly driven by 18-year-old Jayden Ryan Wallace. The incident occurred when Hughes confronted the group of teenagers over the prank.

Hughes sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died.

Following the incident, authorities arrested several teenagers connected to the case. They were later released on bond while the legal process continues.

The main accused, Wallace, is facing serious charges that could lead to up to 15 years in prison. These include first-degree vehicular homicide, reckless driving, criminal trespass and littering.

Four other teenagers involved in the prank have been charged with misdemeanour criminal trespass and littering.

Despite the tragedy, Hughes’ wife, Laura Hughes, who is also a teacher at North Hall High School, has urged authorities to show leniency.

“This is a terrible tragedy, and our family is determined to prevent a separate tragedy from occurring, ruining the lives of these students,” she told the media outlet. “This would be counter to Jason’s lifelong dedication of investing in the lives of these children.”

According to a report by WSB-TV, the Hughes family expressed gratitude to the community for standing by them during their time of grief.

In a statement, the family said they were thankful for the “outpouring of prayers and support as we grieve the loss of Jason”.

“We ask that you continue to pray for our family and also for the students involved in the accident, along with their families. Please join us in extending grace and mercy to them as Christ has done for us.”

The school district also paid tribute to Hughes, remembering him as a respected educator and mentor.

The school district said in a statement, “Our hearts are broken. Jason Hughes was a loving husband, a devoted father, a passionate teacher, mentor, and coach who was loved and respected by students and colleagues. He gave so much to so many in numerous ways. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife and family.”