Motorist Strikes Teen Cyclist, Flees Scene, Deputies Say

A 52-year-old Wesley Chapel man struck a bicyclist with his vehicle and then fled the scene, leading authorities on a brief pursuit, officials reported.

Nathan Wayne Young was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 41 near Painter Place when his 1998 Ford Expedition hit a Huffy bicycle being ridden southbound by 14-year-old Spring Hill resident William J. Machacek, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. Monday, July 29.

“(Young) fled the scene without rendering aid and was later apprehended by by Pasco County Sheriff’s Deputies following a brief pursuit,” according to the Florida Highway Patrol. 

William was airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in critical condition while Young, of Old Pasco Road, was arrested for fleeing and eluding. He remained lodged Tuesday at the Land O' Lakes Jail on $10,000 bond.

The incident remains under investigation and charges are pending against Young, officials said.

This story was originally reported by Local Editor John Majeski.