A 37-year-old Lakeland man was fatally injured in a hit-and-run crash on I-275 near the 32 Milepost, just north of 4th Street North. The collision occurred on Friday, January 24, 2025, at approximately 8:19 p.m.
The incident occurred when the man, driving a Mazda 3 southbound, experienced a flat tire. He stopped on the shoulder of the interstate and exited the vehicle to change the tire. While doing so, he was struck by a passing car that failed to move over.
The victim was transported to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital in St. Petersburg, where he died from his injuries.
FHP Troopers narrowed the search for the suspect vehicle to a 2021 or newer Tesla Model X, dark in color, likely black or gray. The Tesla was likely to display damage to the vehicle’s front and/or front-right portion. The Model X is outfitted with gull-wing doors.
Troopers were able to locate the black 2024 Tesla Model X involved in the fatal crash on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Troopers continue to investigate the incident.
Authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in gathering more information about this incident. Anyone with information is urged to contact FHP at (*347) or Crime Stoppers at **TIPS.