Search On For Pinellas Hit-And-Run Driver

LARGO, FL — The Florida Highway Patrol is asking for help locating a 34-year-old man accused of fleeing from Pinellas County deputies before crashing a SUV into the parking lot at Seminole Subs & Gyros Thursday night. After hitting a curb, shrubs and a tree, the man took off, leaving his vehicle behind, authorities say.

According to the highway patrol, Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2003 Acura SUV around 11 p.m. March 9. The driver entered the parking lot at the 11775 Seminole Blvd. sub shop and struck a few things before bailing out, a highway patrol report said.

The driver is believed to be Douglas Edward Matthews, 34, the report said. Troopers say Matthews is a white male with a thin build. He stands about 6 feet tall and weighs an estimated 175 pounds.

Anyone who knows his whereabouts is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS or go online to www.crimestoppersofpinellas.org.

Further information about the crash is not yet available, including a damage estimate.

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Photo courtesy of the Florida Highway Patrol