Father Of Hit-And-Run Suspect Arrested: Bradenton Police

BRADENTON, FL — The father of the suspect charged in Saturday night’s fatal hit-and-run crash has been arrested, according to a Bradenton Police Department news release.

Jose Torres, 59, was charged with accessory after the fact, a felony.

He was arrested after investigators obtained probable cause that he knew his son, Julio Torres, had committed a felony and helped him avoid arrest, police said.

Julio Torres is still on the run. Police are working with local, state and federal partners to find him.

On Saturday, around 11:30 p.m., Julio was speeding north on 15th Street W. when he lost control of his vehicle, struck a pole, and then hit and killed 26-year-old Clarence Brooks, who was sitting or sleeping near the sidewalk, police said.

He got out of his car and ran from the scene before police arrived.

An arrest warrant was issued for Julio on Sunday. He’s charged with vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of a crash involving death and driving with a suspended license.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bradenton police at 941-932-9300.

Submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com. You may be
eligible for a reward of $3,000.