Margate Man Arrested After Fatal Hit-and-Run Kills Pedestrian Crossing West Atlantic Boulevard

A 55-year-old man has been arrested after authorities say he fled the scene of a fatal pedestrian crash that claimed the life of a 59-year-old man early Thursday morning in Margate.

The Margate Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit continues to investigate the collision.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Margate Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 2:49 a.m. on July 23, 2026, in the 5400 block of West Atlantic Boulevard.

Investigators said 59-year-old Gregory Bowman was walking on the sidewalk before stepping off the curb and beginning to cross West Atlantic Boulevard in a northbound direction.

Preliminary investigators reported that:

• Bowman was struck by a blue 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck.
• The truck was traveling eastbound in the right through lane.
• Margate Fire Rescue pronounced Bowman dead at the scene.

Authorities allege the driver immediately left the scene following the collision.

Following an investigation, Margate Police Traffic Homicide Investigators identified the driver as 55-year-old John Calvino Jr.

Police located and arrested Calvino in Hollywood.

He has been charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving death.

The criminal charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

The Margate Police Department continues to investigate the fatal collision.

Although an arrest has been made, investigators have not yet released additional details regarding:

• The speed of the pickup truck.
• Whether impairment or distraction may have been factors.
• Whether Gregory Bowman was inside or outside a marked crosswalk.
• Whether additional criminal charges may be filed.

As part of the investigation, officers may examine:

• Surveillance and traffic camera footage.
• Witness statements.
• Vehicle damage.
• Event Data Recorder (“black box”) information.
• Physical evidence from the roadway.
• Accident reconstruction findings.

Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or has additional information to contact the Margate Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit.

Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Crash Is a Serious Criminal Offense

Florida law requires drivers involved in crashes resulting in injury or death to immediately stop, remain at the scene, and provide reasonable assistance until emergency responders arrive.

When a driver leaves the scene of a fatal collision, investigators often rely on:

• Surveillance cameras.
• Witness statements.
• Vehicle debris.
• License plate information.
• Forensic evidence.
• Electronic vehicle data.

These investigations frequently continue long after the initial collision as authorities work to identify everyone involved.

Potential Civil Claims Are Separate From Criminal Charges

A criminal prosecution and a civil wrongful death claim are separate legal proceedings.

The filing of criminal charges does not automatically establish civil liability, nor does the outcome of a criminal case determine whether surviving family members may pursue compensation.

If negligence caused or contributed to the collision, eligible surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26).

A wrongful death claim may allow qualifying survivors to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Loss of financial support and future earnings.
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection.
• Mental pain and suffering for qualifying survivors.
• Other damages available under Florida law.

Every case is unique, and legal responsibility depends on the evidence established during the investigation.

Preserving Evidence Is Critical

Evidence collected immediately following a fatal hit-and-run collision can be essential in determining exactly what occurred.

Important evidence may include:

• Surveillance and traffic camera footage.
• Vehicle Event Data Recorder (“black box”) information.
• Crash scene photographs.
• Witness statements.
• Police reports.
• Vehicle inspections.
• Cell phone records, where legally available.
• Accident reconstruction analyses.

Prompt preservation of this evidence can help investigators accurately reconstruct the collision and determine all contributing factors.

Investigation Continues

The Margate Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit continues to investigate the fatal hit-and-run crash on West Atlantic Boulevard.

Additional information regarding the investigation or any further charges may be released as authorities complete their review.

Remembering Gregory Bowman

The loss of Gregory Bowman is a heartbreaking tragedy for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time and hope the ongoing investigation helps provide the answers and accountability they deserve.