Motorcyclist Killed in Lauderhill Hit-and-Run Identified; Tesla Located by Police

Authorities have identified a motorcyclist killed in a hit-and-run crash in Lauderhill last week and confirmed that the vehicle believed to be involved has been located, though no arrests have been made.

According to Lauderhill Police, the crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. Friday in the 3900 block of West Sunrise Boulevard.

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered:

• A severely damaged motorcycle
• The motorcyclist deceased at the scene
• Evidence indicating the other vehicle had fled

Police later identified the victim as 34-year-old Erik Zepeda Villalobos.

Investigators say the driver responsible left the scene immediately after the collision, making the crash a criminal hit-and-run.

Lauderhill Police confirmed that a gray Tesla Model Y believed to have struck the motorcycle was later located within the city. However:

• No arrests have been made
• Investigators continue working to identify the driver
• Authorities are asking the public for assistance

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Lauderhill Police at 954-497-4700.

Legal Consequences of Hit-and-Run Crashes in Florida

Leaving the scene of a crash involving death is a serious felony under Florida law. Drivers involved in a crash are legally required to:

• Stop immediately
• Provide identification and insurance information
• Render aid or call for emergency assistance

When a driver flees after causing a fatal crash, they may face severe criminal penalties in addition to civil liability.

Motorcycle Hit-and-Run Risks

Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable in hit-and-run crashes due to the lack of physical protection compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. These incidents often result in catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Common causes of motorcycle hit-and-run crashes include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Failure to yield
• Driving under the influence
• Panic after a collision

In many cases, surveillance footage, witness statements, and vehicle data can help investigators identify the responsible driver.

Civil Claims After a Fatal Hit-and-Run

When a loved one is killed in a hit-and-run crash, surviving family members may still have legal options—even if the driver is not immediately located.

Potential sources of compensation may include:

• Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage
• Vehicle owner liability
• Employer liability if the driver was working
• Wrongful death claims against the at-fault driver once identified

Compensation may help cover funeral expenses, medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Can Help

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, our attorneys represent families throughout Florida in serious injury and wrongful death cases involving:

• Hit-and-run crashes
• Motorcycle accidents
• Catastrophic injuries
• Negligence-related fatalities

Our firm intentionally maintains a small caseload to give each client direct access to an experienced attorney and the focused attention their case deserves. We cover all costs upfront and only recover fees if we secure compensation for our clients.

If your loved one was killed in a hit-and-run or motorcycle crash in Florida, contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer today for a free, confidential consultation.