LAKELAND, Fla. – The Lakeland Police Department has made an arrest in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred in November 2024.
Daniel Kovacs was taken into custody on Wednesday and charged with leaving the scene of a crash, resulting in death and tampering with physical evidence.
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On November 23rd, 2024, around 12:02 AM, Lakeland Police responded to a hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian in the 700 block of South Florida Avenue. The victim, identified as 67-year-old Robin Brown, was attempting to cross the street when she was struck by a vehicle traveling southbound. The driver fled the scene without rendering aid.
Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Brown succumbed to her injuries at Lakeland Regional Health.
The Lakeland Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit launched an investigation, gathering evidence and reviewing surveillance footage. Based on witness statements and debris found at the scene, investigators determined the suspect vehicle was likely a silver or gray Range Rover.
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Two days later, an employee at a local collision repair shop contacted the police about a vehicle matching the description that had been recently dropped off for repairs. The vehicle, a 2022 silver Land Rover Range Rover Sport registered to Kovacs, showed signs of damage consistent with the crash and attempts to conceal the damage.
Further investigation, including surveillance footage from a downtown restaurant, revealed that Kovacs had been consuming alcoholic beverages with a friend prior to the crash. Video from the crash scene showed Kovacs’s vehicle colliding with the victim and leaving the scene.
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“This certainly is a heartbreaking case in which we are grateful for the cooperation of many Lakeland businesses who provided the evidence needed to ensure justice was served for Robin Brown,” said Lakeland Police Chief Sam Taylor. “Our investigators have poured many dedicated hours of their time into this case to ensure that as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ms. Brown as they mourn her loss.”
The investigation remains active, and further details may be released as they become available.
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