The Lady Lake Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating a specific vehicle that fled the scene of a fatal pedestrian crash on U.S. Hwy. 27/441.
Investigators are searching for a white or silver mid-sized car that is believed to be the second vehicle involved in a deadly hit-and-run during the early morning hours of June 16, near Hartsock Sawmill Road. Police say the suspect vehicle will possibly have damage to its front or underside.
The tragic incident began at about 3:26 a.m. When officers arrived at the scene, they found a male victim injured in the southbound lanes of U.S. Hwy. 27/441. A gray 2023 Toyota Tacoma was stopped nearby.
According to the preliminary investigation, the female driver of the Tacoma reported that the pedestrian was standing motionless in the middle lane of the highway. He was wearing dark clothing, and the area was not illuminated by streetlights. The woman told officers she was traveling 50 to 55 mph when she noticed the man in the road. She attempted to avoid him but was unable to and struck him.
The driver immediately stopped, and her passenger went to check on the man while 911 was called.
A short time later, a second southbound vehicle—believed to be the white or silver mid-sized car—struck the injured man and continued driving without stopping.
The victim was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The Lady Lake Police Department is actively investigating the crash. Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have information about the white or silver car is asked to contact the Lady Lake Police Department at 352-751-1560 and leave a message for Officer Dennis Pranouskes of the Traffic Homicide Unit. Tips can also be submitted through Central Florida Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.