According to the Florida Highway Patrol, three pedestrians — including a child — were injured on Halloween night when a pickup truck struck them and fled the scene along Sandhill Boulevard in Charlotte County. Troopers later arrested a Punta Gorda man in connection with the crash.
Halloween Night Hit-and-Run Injures Three Pedestrians on Sandhill Boulevard
On October 31, 2025, at approximately 7:56 PM, what should have been a night of fun and candy became a nightmare along Sandhill Boulevard near Seasons Drive — a busy trick-or-treat route filled with families and children.
FHP reports that a 2022 Dodge Ram 1500 traveling southbound collided with a parked vehicle and then struck three pedestrians — an adult, a teenager, and a child. All three were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment of their injuries.
After the crash, the driver fled without stopping to help. Later that evening, State Troopers located the damaged pickup at a residence in Punta Gorda and arrested Eugene Mandarino, 66, on multiple felony counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving injuries. The investigation remains ongoing.
Charlotte County Community Reacts to Halloween Hit-and-Run
The crash has shaken Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda residents, especially parents who were out walking neighborhood streets that night. Halloween always brings increased pedestrian traffic and higher risks, as children dart between houses in the dark.
Residents are urging one another to slow down, stay alert, and make safety a priority during family-focused community events like Halloween.
After a Hit-and-Run Crash, What Happens Next for Victims?
Crashes like this leave victims and their families asking what happens next — and what rights they have under Florida law. Even when the driver flees, you still have legal options to recover medical costs, lost wages, and more.
What Victims Should Know After a Hit-and-Run Crash in Florida
If you’re struck by a driver who flees the scene, you still have legal options. Here’s what Florida law says — and how our team at Justice Pays can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident a Crime in Florida?
Under Florida Statute 316.027, any driver involved in a crash causing injury or death must remain at the scene, provide aid, and contact law enforcement. Failing to do so is a felony offense that can bring prison time, heavy fines, and license revocation.
Despite these strict penalties, hit-and-run crashes remain a serious problem across Florida — often leaving victims with painful injuries, medical bills, and uncertainty about how to move forward.
What Should You Do Right After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you or a loved one are hurt by a driver who flees:
Call 911 right away to get medical help.
Stay at the scene and note any details about the vehicle or driver.
Do not chase the driver. Your safety comes first.
Ask for the official crash report once it’s available.
Speak with an attorney before giving recorded statements to insurance companies.
Our attorneys can act quickly to secure evidence, witness statements, and camera footage that can help identify the driver and strengthen your claim.
How Do Victims Get Compensation After a Hit-and-Run in Florida?
Even when the driver is unknown or uninsured, victims may still be able to recover compensation through Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage or other available insurance.
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we handle every step — from insurance claims to trial if necessary.
With over 150 years of combined experience and more than $500 million recovered for Florida accident victims, we know how to get results.
Every client works directly with a senior partner, ensuring real attention and representation — never a handoff to a call center or junior associate.
Simple Safety Tips to Help Florida Drivers Protect Pedestrians
Crashes like the one on Sandhill Boulevard remind us all that every driver plays a role in keeping our community safe.
Slow down in neighborhoods and crosswalks.
Stay alert — avoid phones and distractions.
Never drive impaired.
Watch for children crossing between parked cars.
Use headlights and safe following distance after dark.
A few extra seconds of caution can prevent a lifetime of pain.
Justice Pays Fights for Florida Hit-and-Run Victims
At Justice Pays – Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we fight for hit-and-run victims across Charlotte County, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and all of Southwest Florida.
With a 4.9★ Google rating, 10/10 AVVO score, and recognition from Super Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent, our firm has earned a reputation for results, integrity, and community commitment.
We live here, work here, and fight here — because your recovery is personal to us.
Injured by a reckless or hit-and-run driver? Don’t settle for less — Go For The Gold. Call (941) 954-1234 for your free, no-obligation consultation.
Pedestrian Accident FAQ — What Florida Victims Need to Know
Below are answers to some of the most common questions people ask after a pedestrian crash or hit-and-run in Florida.
Who Is at Fault When a Driver Hits a Pedestrian in Florida?
In most cases, the driver is at fault — especially when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk or residential area. Florida law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians and exercise due care to avoid collisions.
Each case is unique, and liability may be shared if a pedestrian crosses outside a marked crosswalk. Our attorneys gather witness statements, crash reports, and video evidence to prove driver negligence and hold them accountable.
Can a Pedestrian Still Recover Compensation If They Were Partially at Fault?
Yes. Florida’s modified comparative negligence law allows recovery as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the crash.
If you are found 20% at fault, for example, you can still recover 80% of your damages. With over 150 years of combined legal experience, our team builds strong, evidence-driven cases to maximize compensation.
What Damages Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Recover in Florida?
Depending on your injuries, you may be entitled to recover:
Medical expenses and future care costs
Lost income or reduced earning potential
Pain and suffering
Emotional trauma
Loss of enjoyment of life
Funeral costs and survivor benefits in fatal cases
Every case at Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh is handled by a senior partner, ensuring experienced representation that fights for full and fair compensation.
Do Pedestrian Accident Victims Have Coverage If the Driver Flees the Scene?
Yes. Even if the at-fault driver cannot be identified, many victims can recover damages under Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This policy can help pay for medical treatment, lost wages, and more after a hit-and-run crash.
Our firm has recovered over $500 million for Florida accident victims and can help you navigate your insurance options.
How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Florida?
You generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim, or two years from the date of death in wrongful death cases.
Because crucial evidence can disappear quickly, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights and strengthen your claim.
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Car?
Call 911 and get medical help right away.
Stay at the scene if it’s safe.
Get names, license plate numbers, and witness contacts.
Take photos of the area, vehicles, and any injuries.
Request a crash report from police.
Contact a local injury attorney before dealing with insurance adjusters.
At Justice Pays, you’ll work directly with an experienced partner — not a call center or junior associate. We live here, work here, and fight here — because your recovery is personal to us.
Injured? Don’t settle for less — Go For The Gold. Call (941) 954-1234 for your free consultation.