Pedestrian Critical After Being Struck By Driver In Lakeland

LAKELAND, FL — Lakeland police are searching for the person responsible for striking a pedestrian in the road at 10:25 p.m. Nov. 10, causing critical injuries to the pedestrian, and fleeing the scene.

Officers responded to a crash near the 3400 block of U.S.98 North and found an unresponsive man in the roadway.

Members of the Lakeland Police Department, Lakeland Fire Department and Polk County Fire Rescue provided aid to the pedestrian and secured the scene.

The 29-year-old man was taken to Lakeland Regional Health Center with critical injuries.

Based on evidence gathered, investigators believe a dark-colored pickup truck was traveling south in the center lane of the 3500 block of U.S. 98 North.

Police said the driver changed from a center lane to an inside lane, saw the pedestrian and tried to swerve to avoid him but struck the man as he attempted to cross the road.

Shortly after, the driver fled the scene without making any attempt to render aid or contact police.

The roadway was shut down for approximately four hours while the scene was processed. The driver of the vehicle has not been identified at this time. A witness at the scene captured a digital photograph of the suspect vehicle, a dark-colored lifted pickup truck. Investigators believe it may have damage on the passenger side.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact investigator Edgardo Cruz at Edgardo.cruz@lakelandgov.net or Heartland Crime Stoppers Florida.

Tipsters will always remain anonymous when sending a tip through Crime Stoppers and could be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest. To submit a tip:

• Call 1-800-226 TIPS (8477)
• From your cell phone, dial **TIPS
• Visit the website and click on "Submit A Tip,"
• Or download the free "P3tips" app on a smartphone or tablet.