Man Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash in Putnam County, FHP Searching for Driver

A tragic hit-and-run crash in Putnam County has left one man dead and authorities searching for the driver responsible.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is actively investigating the fatal incident and urging anyone with information to come forward.

According to FHP troopers, the crash occurred just after 7 p.m. Thursday at the intersection of Church Lake Drive and Dawn Avenue in Interlachen.

Investigators say the man was struck by an unknown vehicle, and the driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid.

A nearby individual discovered the victim lying on the ground and called 911. Despite emergency response efforts, the man died as a result of his injuries.

Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity pending notification of next of kin.

Driver Remains at Large

As of now, law enforcement has not released a description of the vehicle involved in the fatal hit-and-run.

The Florida Highway Patrol and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office are asking anyone who may have:

• Witnessed the crash
• Seen a suspicious or damaged vehicle in the area
• Captured dashcam or surveillance footage

to contact investigators immediately.

Tips can be reported to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office or FHP. Even small details may help identify the driver responsible.

The Serious Consequences of Hit-and-Run Crashes

Leaving the scene of a crash involving injuries or death is a serious criminal offense in Florida. Drivers involved in collisions are legally required to stop, render aid, and notify authorities.

When a driver flees the scene, it can:

• Delay life-saving medical treatment
• Complicate investigations
• Increase the severity of criminal charges

Hit-and-run crashes involving fatalities can result in severe felony charges, including lengthy prison sentences and permanent driver’s license revocation.

Potential Civil Liability in Hit-and-Run Fatalities

In addition to criminal charges, drivers who flee fatal crash scenes may also face civil liability.

Families of victims may be able to pursue wrongful death claims through:

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
• Claims against the at-fault driver once identified
• Potential third-party liability depending on circumstances

These claims can help families recover compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost financial support, and emotional suffering following a sudden and preventable loss.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues working to identify the driver and vehicle involved in the fatal hit-and-run crash in Putnam County.

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact authorities as soon as possible. As the investigation progresses, additional details may be released.