Alexa Stakely, a 29-year-old single mom, died heroically trying to save her son during an attempted carjacking in Columbus early Friday morning, prompting community calls for justice.

The tragedy unfolded around 1:30 a.m. when Stakely was picking up her 6-year-old son from a babysitter's home. Leaping onto the hood of her Honda SUV to protect her child, Stakely was thrown to the pavement by the fleeing carjacker and later died from her injuries at Mount Carmel East hospital. The car was found abandoned nearby, with her son unharmed inside. This incident has sparked widespread outrage and a call for justice as police search for the two suspects who remain at large. Stakely's death highlights the growing concern over vehicle thefts involving children, with 56 such cases reported this year.

Stakely's actions exemplified maternal bravery. Witnesses described the harrowing moments, recounting how Stakely, noticing her car being taken, acted swiftly to save her child. Despite her desperate attempt to thwart the carjackers by jumping onto the hood of her Honda SUV, she was violently thrown to the pavement when the suspects hit the accelerator.

Emergency services were promptly on the scene and transported Stakely to Mount Carmel East hospital. There, she succumbed to a fatal head injury, leaving a void in the lives of her family, friends, and the thousands who have read about her courageous act.

The Columbus police have intensified efforts to locate the suspects. Surveillance footage has identified two male suspects, but they remain at large. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the community rallies for swift justice.

The abandoned vehicle was found not far from the scene, and thankfully, Stakely's 6-year-old son was discovered unharmed inside. The swift discovery provided a small relief amidst the tragedy, assuring the community that the child's immediate physical wellbeing was intact.

Alexa Stakely balanced two jobs, working as a speech and language pathologist at Canal Winchester Schools and as a waitress. Those who knew her paint a picture of a passionate and dedicated professional who always put her son first. Her tragic death has left her coworkers and students at the school profoundly shaken.

Neighbors and community members have inundated the Columbus Division Police's Facebook page with messages of condolence and calls for action. Many expressed their deep admiration for Stakely's courage and their heartbreak over her untimely passing.

The disturbing trend of stolen vehicles with children inside has captured public attention, with 56 such incidents reported in 2024. Law enforcement agencies are faced with the dual challenge of addressing car thefts while ensuring the safety of vulnerable passengers. This tragic incident has intensified the focus on this alarming issue.

In remembering Alexa Stakely, many highlighted her compassionate and smart nature, emphasizing her unwavering dedication as a mother and professional. Her commitment to her son and the lengths she went to protect him have resonated deeply with many, underscoring the severity and emotional impact of such crimes on families and communities.

The Canal Winchester Schools community has organized a vigil in her memory, inviting all who knew her and those who have been touched by her story to come together in solidarity. As her community mourns, they also reflect on the broader societal issues highlighted by her tragic death, emphasizing the imperative for increased safety measures and community vigilance.

Efforts are underway to support Stakely's family through this traumatic period. A GoFundMe page has been established to help cover funeral expenses and provide support for her son in the wake of this incomprehensible loss.

As the investigation continues, the local law enforcement has committed to bringing those responsible to justice and continues to appeal to the public for any information that could lead to the suspects' apprehension. The community remains hopeful that the perpetrators will be swiftly caught and held accountable for their actions.