Fort Lauderdale Bicyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash; Driver Charged

A 68-year-old Fort Lauderdale woman was killed Thursday morning after being struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle in a designated bike lane, according to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department.

Authorities say the driver fled the scene following the collision but was later identified and arrested. The fatal crash prompted the closure of a portion of Southeast 17th Street for several hours as investigators gathered evidence.

The case remains under investigation.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 6:40 a.m. on June 25, 2026, in the 2000 block of Southeast 17th Street.

Investigators reported that:

• A woman was riding her bicycle in the bike lane.
• She was struck by a dark-colored vehicle.
• The driver allegedly fled the scene after the collision.
• Emergency responders transported the victim to Broward Health Medical Center.
• She later died from her injuries.

Authorities identified the victim as Shelley Lewis, 68, of Fort Lauderdale.

Suspect Arrested

Police later identified the suspected driver as 22-year-old Don Janea Smith.

According to investigators, Smith has been charged with:

• Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death

Authorities have not announced whether additional criminal charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

Road Closed During Investigation

Following the fatal collision, Fort Lauderdale Police closed the eastbound lanes of Southeast 17th Street in the area while traffic homicide investigators processed the scene.

Aerial footage showed Ms. Lewis’s bicycle lying on its side within the designated bike lane as investigators documented evidence.

Motorists were advised to use alternate routes, including:

• East Las Olas Boulevard
• Sunrise Boulevard

Traffic resumed after investigators completed their initial examination of the crash scene.

Florida Law Requires Drivers to Stop After a Crash

Florida law requires every driver involved in a collision resulting in injury or death to immediately stop and remain at the scene.

Under Florida Statute §316.027, drivers involved in crashes causing death or serious bodily injury must:

• Immediately stop their vehicle.
• Remain at the scene.
• Provide identifying information.
• Render reasonable assistance to injured victims, including contacting emergency medical services when necessary.

Leaving the scene of a fatal crash is a serious felony under Florida law and carries substantial criminal penalties.

Additional Criminal Charges May Be Considered

Although authorities have announced one criminal charge, investigators will continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Depending on the evidence, prosecutors may also evaluate whether additional offenses occurred, including:

• Careless Driving (Florida Statute §316.1925)
• Reckless Driving (Florida Statute §316.192)
• Vehicular Homicide (Florida Statute §782.071), if supported by the evidence

Whether additional charges are appropriate will depend on the results of the ongoing investigation.

Bicycle Safety Under Florida Law

Florida law recognizes bicyclists as lawful users of the roadway.

Under Florida Statute §316.2065, motorists must exercise due care when sharing the road with cyclists and should remain alert for bicycles traveling in designated bike lanes.

Investigators will likely examine factors such as:

• Vehicle speed
• Driver attentiveness
• Visibility
• Roadway design
• Lane position
• Physical evidence from the scene

At this time, authorities have not released additional information regarding what caused the collision.

Potential Wrongful Death Claim

In addition to the criminal case, surviving family members may have legal rights under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26) if another party’s negligence caused the fatal collision.

Potential damages may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Loss of companionship and protection
• Mental pain and suffering
• Loss of financial support and services

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil matter and is separate from any criminal prosecution.

Hit-and-Run Crashes Continue to Be a Serious Problem

Florida consistently reports one of the highest numbers of hit-and-run crashes in the nation.

When drivers leave the scene instead of stopping to render aid, victims often lose valuable time receiving emergency medical treatment, and investigators face additional challenges identifying those responsible.

Law enforcement agencies continue to encourage anyone involved in a collision to remain at the scene and cooperate fully with investigators.

Investigation Continues

Fort Lauderdale Police continue to investigate the fatal crash.

Investigators are expected to review:

• Witness statements
• Surveillance footage
• Vehicle evidence
• Crash reconstruction findings
• Additional forensic evidence

Anyone with information regarding the collision is encouraged to contact the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Authorities stated that tips may be provided confidentially.

Remembering Shelley Lewis

The death of Shelley Lewis is a heartbreaking loss for her family, friends, and the Fort Lauderdale community.

Our thoughts are with her loved ones during this difficult time as they seek answers and mourn her loss.

The investigation into the fatal hit-and-run crash remains ongoing.