A hit-and-run in Fort Myers claimed the life of a 41-year-old man Tuesday night. The incident occurred on US 41 north of Constitution Boulevard in the northbound lanes just before 1 a.m.
Florida Highway Patrol said two vehicles were involved in the crash, and both left the scene. Investigators have identified a 2005 white Nissan Altima with significant front-end damage that may have been involved. Authorities are now searching for a second vehicle, a 2013-2016 red Chevrolet Malibu.
“It’s sad that we have to come to this situation where people are injured and no responsibility is taken for that problem,” said Fort Myers resident Gary Loomis.
Daniel Czahor, also from Fort Myers, expressed his dismay, saying, “It’s horrible. I mean, that’s terrible to hear, honestly.”
Trish Routte, manager of SWFL Crime Stoppers, emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “We don’t know the circumstances yet, but if that pedestrian had just wandered out into the right of way, it could have just been an accident,” she said. “The minute that that driver takes off, you go from what could have potentially been maybe a ticket situation to you go into jail for a very long time for this.”
FHP is conducting a forensic examination of the possible hit-and-run vehicle, which will be impounded for further investigation.
Anyone with information about this fatal incident is urged to contact the Florida Highway Patrol or SWFL Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.