JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Although the sentencing of 21-year-old Justin Golden was anticipated today, it has been postponed. The court decided that further evidence and witness testimonies are still needed before proceeding.

Golden admitted guilt in September to the charge of aggravated manslaughter of a child. As per his plea agreement, he could face a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

In the early hours of January 25, 2025, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office responded to a devastating incident involving an 8-month-old boy, Pablo Kye Golden, at the crossroads of McDuff Avenue South and Lenox Avenue in Jacksonville’s Westside.

Investigators revealed that Golden, who was driving with a female passenger, the baby’s mother, got into a heated argument with her near the intersection. When the car stopped, Golden allegedly placed the infant on the ground and drove off, tragically hitting the child.

The baby was rushed to a nearby hospital but was sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.

Golden was originally arrested and charged with vehicular homicide, failing to render aid, and aggravated manslaughter of a child. 

In February he pleaded not guilty. In September, prosecutors dropped the vehicular homicide charge and Golden pleaded guilty instead to aggravated manslaughter of a child under an agreement that carries a possible sentence of up to 30 years in prison. 

At the scheduled sentencing hearing, both the prosecution and defense presented significant testimony and victim impact statements. 

A JSO detective testified using photos and maps of the roadway, displaying a pacifier with blood in the street and describing the surveillance/video evidence of Golden placing Pablo in the roadway. 

The baby’s mother and grandmother provided written impact statements describing the profound grief and loss they endure — missed milestones, shattered futures, and lasting trauma. 

On the defense side, character witnesses, including Golden’s mother, pastor and sisters, testified to his otherwise positive traits and the remorse he has expressed.

Judge London Kite announced the sentencing would be deferred because additional out-of-town witnesses and further evidence remain. A next hearing date was set for Dec. 1 to schedule the follow-up.