Executive Summary
- A 74-year-old pedestrian was killed Monday night in a hit-and-run crash in Bradenton, Florida.
- The Florida Highway Patrol reports the victim was in a marked crosswalk on 60th Avenue West.
- The suspect vehicle is described as a dark gray or black Toyota RAV4 or 4Runner.
- Investigators say the driver briefly entered a nearby apartment complex before fleeing the scene.
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers have launched a manhunt for the driver of a sport utility vehicle involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision that claimed the life of a 74-year-old pedestrian in Bradenton on Monday night. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance in locating a dark-colored Toyota SUV believed to be connected to the incident.
According to FHP investigators, the fatal crash occurred on 60th Avenue West near the intersection with Flamingo Boulevard. Troopers report that the victim was traversing the roadway within a marked crosswalk when he was struck by the oncoming vehicle. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Following the collision, witnesses and evidence suggest the driver briefly pulled the vehicle into the nearby Flamingo Garden Apartment complex. However, instead of remaining at the scene as required by law, the motorist allegedly fled the area without rendering aid or contacting emergency services, according to the FHP report.
Investigators have described the suspect vehicle as a dark gray or black Toyota RAV4 or Toyota 4Runner. The FHP has stated that the investigation remains active, and troopers are working to determine all contributing factors, including right-of-way assignments at the time of the impact.
Investigative Outlook
The Florida Highway Patrol is currently focusing its resources on locating the suspect vehicle and driver, urging anyone with information to contact FHP by dialing *347 or to submit anonymous tips through Manatee County Crime Stoppers. Leaving the scene of a crash involving a fatality is classified as a first-degree felony under Florida statutes. As the investigation proceeds, authorities will likely review surveillance footage from the apartment complex and surrounding businesses to establish a definitive timeline and trajectory of the fleeing vehicle.
