Motorcyclist Dies After Pasco County Crash; Driver Arrested After Leaving Scene

A Pasco County man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he fled the scene of a motorcycle crash that left one rider dead and another seriously injured.

The collision occurred late on June 6 at the intersection of Handcart Road and Old Bridge Road. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the driver of an SUV turned directly into the path of an oncoming motorcycle before leaving the crash scene and returning home.

What We Know About the Crash

Florida Highway Patrol investigators reported that:

• A Honda CR-V was traveling northbound on Handcart Road.
• The SUV attempted a left turn onto Old Bridge Road.
• A Yamaha motorcycle was traveling southbound.
• The SUV turned into the motorcycle’s path.
• The motorcycle struck the vehicle.

The impact ejected both occupants of the motorcycle.

Rider Dies, Passenger Seriously Injured

Authorities said:

• The 31-year-old motorcycle rider from Zephyrhills suffered critical injuries.
• A 32-year-old female passenger from Zephyrhills also sustained serious injuries.
• Both were transported to a hospital.
• The rider later died from his injuries.
• The passenger remained hospitalized in serious condition.

Driver Allegedly Left the Scene

Investigators reported that the SUV driver left the crash scene following the collision.

Troopers later located him at his residence and placed him under arrest.

Charges include:

• Leaving the scene of a crash involving death
• Leaving the scene involving serious bodily injury
• Leaving the scene involving property damage

The criminal investigation remains active.

Why Hit-and-Run Crashes Are So Serious

Florida law requires drivers involved in crashes to remain at the scene and provide assistance when injuries occur.

Leaving the scene can:

• Delay emergency medical care
• Complicate investigations
• Increase risks for injured victims
• Result in severe criminal penalties

When serious injuries or fatalities occur, hit-and-run charges can carry significant prison sentences.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash and the events that followed.

Additional information may be released as the criminal case progresses.

Remembering the Victim

The death of a 31-year-old motorcyclist is a tragic loss for his family, friends, and community.

Our thoughts remain with his loved ones, as well as the injured passenger who continues her recovery.