Pedestrian Killed in Deadly Hit-and-Run on U.S. 41 in Lee County

A pedestrian was struck and killed early Wednesday morning on U.S. 41 (South Tamiami Trail) in Lee County, prompting a full-scale investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The fatal hit-and-run occurred just north of Constitution Boulevard shortly before 1 a.m.

Troopers said the pedestrian, whose identity has not yet been released, was walking along the northbound travel lanes of U.S. 41 when they were hit by an unknown vehicle — or possibly two vehicles — that fled the scene.

The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead.

According to FHP, investigators initially located a Nissan Altima in Fort Myers with a smashed hood and cracked windshield, believed to be involved in the crash. Later that evening, troopers also found a second vehicle, a 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, with front-end damage parked in a Fort Myers apartment complex. Both vehicles have been impounded for forensic examination.

As of Thursday morning, FHP has not yet located the drivers of either vehicle. Investigators continue to analyze evidence to determine who was behind the wheel during the deadly incident.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers or the Florida Highway Patrol Fort Myers Office at 239-938-1800.

Florida has one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country, with more than 750 pedestrian deaths reported statewide in 2024, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

Many of these incidents occur on high-speed arterial roads like U.S. 41, where long stretches without crosswalks or lighting make pedestrians vulnerable — especially at night.

Common causes of fatal pedestrian crashes include:

• Speeding and reckless driving
• Driver distraction (texting or using GPS)
• Failure to yield at intersections or crosswalks
• Driving under the influence
• Poor roadway visibility

Under Florida Statute §316.027, leaving the scene of a crash involving death is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and significant fines.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Hit-and-Run

Families who lose a loved one in a hit-and-run crash often face emotional devastation and financial hardship. Even when the at-fault driver has not yet been identified, victims’ families may still be eligible to recover compensation through:

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage under their own insurance policy
• Wrongful death claims once the responsible driver is located
• Claims against multiple drivers or vehicle owners, if more than one vehicle was involved

Compensation in wrongful death cases may include:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and care
• Emotional pain and suffering

Because evidence can disappear quickly after a hit-and-run, it’s essential for families to contact an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families across Florida who have lost loved ones in pedestrian, hit-and-run, and vehicle negligence cases.

Our firm is dedicated to helping victims and their families:

• Conduct independent investigations
• Obtain traffic camera footage and witness statements
• Work with accident reconstruction experts
• Coordinate with law enforcement and insurance carriers
• Pursue maximum compensation under Florida law

We intentionally limit our caseload to ensure that every client receives personal attention, compassion, and relentless advocacy.

Contact a Florida Wrongful Death Attorney

If you lost a loved one in a Lee County pedestrian crash or hit-and-run, you deserve justice and accountability. Our attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm have the experience, resources, and commitment to guide you through this difficult time.

📞 Call (305) 638-4143 to schedule a free consultation. We charge no upfront fees — we only get paid when we win.