Man Attempting to Cross Pinellas Park Roadway Struck and Killed by Impaired Driver

Man Attempting to Cross Pinellas Park Roadway Struck and Killed by Impaired Driver

Jeffrey Hillhouse, age 50 of Largo, was arrested on one count of DUI and one count of Refusal to Submit to Testing after he struck and killed a pedestrian last night in Pinellas Park.

According to Pinellas Park Police, at approximately 10:06 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2018, a 2001 white Ford Explorer being operated by Jeffery Hillhouse, was traveling northbound on 49^th Street N, in the 8000 block traveling at approximately 40 MPH in the median lane.

At the same time, a pedestrian, 70 year-old Donald Gardner of Seminole was walking east across 49^th Street N, in the 8000 block.  The 2001 Ford Explorer struck Mr. Gardner while he was crossing 49^th Street N, in the northbound median lane.

As a result of the crash, Mr. Gardner was transported to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg and later died from his injuries.

The driver Jeffrey Hillhouse stayed on scene and was later arrested for DUI after he showed signs of impairment.

It was determined from the investigation that Mr. Gardner was crossing 49^th Street, illegally (mid block) and violated the vehicle’s right-of-way.

Investigators will continue to work with the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office to determine if any charges are warranted in this investigation.