PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Florida Highway Patrol troopers have located the suspected hit-and-run vehicle involved in a fatal crash that occurred on January 24th in Pinellas County. The vehicle, a black 2024 Tesla Model X, was recovered on Tuesday, January 28th, at a residence in Manatee County.
Troopers are continuing their investigation into the crash. Further details will be released as they become available.
Previous Report: The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a Tesla Model X believed to be involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash on Interstate 275 in Pinellas County that claimed the life of a Lakeland man.
At approximately 8:19 PM, a 37-year-old man from Lakeland was driving a Mazda 3 southbound on I-275 near the 32nd milepost, just north of 4th Street North, when he experienced a flat tire. He pulled over to the shoulder of the interstate and exited his vehicle to change the tire.
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While outside his car, a passing vehicle struck him and then fled the scene without stopping to render aid. The man was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Preliminary investigations by the FHP have led them to believe that the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run is a 2021 or newer Tesla Model X. Investigators are searching for a dark-colored Model X, likely black or gray. The vehicle is expected to have sustained damage to the front and/or front-right portion. A key identifying feature of the Model X is its distinctive gull-wing doors.
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The FHP is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has any information about the suspect vehicle to come forward. Even seemingly insignificant details could be crucial to the investigation and help bring closure to the victim’s family.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Florida Highway Patrol by calling FHP (347) or by contacting Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.
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