FHP Releases Video, Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Hit-and-Run Driver in Deadly Hillsborough County Crash

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the driver responsible for a deadly hit-and-run collision that occurred Tuesday evening in the Palm River–Clair Mel area of Hillsborough County.

According to investigators, a 49-year-old Brandon bicyclist was attempting to cross U.S. Highway 41 near 24th Avenue South when he was first struck by a Volvo semi-truck. Troopers say the truck driver immediately pulled over and attempted to help the victim.

Moments later, while the victim was still lying in the roadway, a northbound dark-colored pickup truck ran over the man and fled the scene without stopping. The victim died at the scene from his injuries.

FHP has now released surveillance video of the incident and is urging anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone who recognizes the vehicle or has details that could help identify the hit-and-run driver is asked to contact **FHP at FHP (347) or **Crime Stoppers at TIPS.

Based on the ongoing investigation:

• The initial impact occurred when the cyclist attempted to cross U.S. 41 and was hit by a semi-truck.
• The semi-truck driver stopped, called for help, and tried to assist the victim—fulfilling their legal duty under Florida law.
• A second vehicle, described as a dark-colored pickup truck, then struck the victim.
• The driver of the pickup truck did not stop, violating Florida Statute §316.027, which requires all drivers involved in crashes with injury or death to remain at the scene.

The bicyclist’s identity has not been released as investigators work to notify next of kin.

Hit-and-run crashes continue to be a major problem in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles:

• Over 100,000 hit-and-run crashes occur statewide each year
• More than 250 fatalities annually involve hit-and-run drivers
• Vulnerable road users—pedestrians and bicyclists—make up a large portion of these deaths

Drivers flee for various reasons, including fear, intoxication, suspended licenses, or outstanding warrants—but fleeing the scene only worsens the legal consequences.

A driver who leaves the scene of a fatal crash faces:

• A first-degree felony
• A mandatory minimum of 4 years in prison
• Lifetime driver’s license revocation

Legal Rights for Families After a Fatal Bicycle Hit-and-Run

When a loved one is killed by a driver who flees the scene, surviving family members may pursue justice under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (§768.16–§768.26). A wrongful death claim can help families recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of financial support or services
• Medical expenses (if applicable)

Even if the hit-and-run driver has not yet been identified, families may still have legal options.

Possible sources of compensation include:

1. The At-Fault Hit-and-Run Driver (Once Identified)

FHP’s ongoing investigation may lead to the driver. Civil claims can be filed in addition to criminal charges.

2. The Semi-Truck and Trucking Company

Although the semi-driver reportedly stopped and attempted to help, the initial impact may still be investigated for potential liability.
Trucking companies can be held responsible under:

• Negligent operation
• Failure to maintain safe driving protocols
• Driver fatigue
• Improper training
• Faulty vehicle maintenance

3. The Victim’s Own Auto Insurance (UM/UIM Coverage)

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage often applies when the at-fault driver flees.

4. Nearby Businesses or Traffic Surveillance Footage

If road design or lack of lighting contributed to the crash, other parties may bear partial liability.

Importance of Acting Quickly

Evidence in hit-and-run cases can disappear fast. Our legal team helps families by:

• Securing surveillance footage before it’s deleted
• Working with accident reconstruction experts
• Coordinating with law enforcement
• Preserving witness statements
• Identifying all potential sources of insurance coverage

Because Florida is a comparative negligence state (§768.81), even if more than one driver contributed to the crash, families may still recover substantial compensation.

We Help Families Seek Justice After Fatal Bicycle Crashes

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we work closely with families facing unimaginable loss. We handle the investigation, legal filings, negotiations, and litigation so families can focus on healing.

We offer:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Direct access to a wrongful death attorney
• Extensive experience with bicycle and hit-and-run cases statewide

If your loved one was killed in a bicycle crash—hit-and-run or otherwise—contact us today.