A 31-year-old Zephyrhills man was killed in a motorcycle crash Saturday night after a driver allegedly turned into his path and fled the scene, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 11:12 p.m. on June 6, 2026, at the intersection of Handcart Road and Old Bridge Road in Pasco County.
Troopers say a Honda CR-V, driven by 70-year-old Wesley Chapel resident Jaykumar Chaturbhai Patel, was traveling northbound on Handcart Road when Patel attempted to make a left turn at Old Bridge Road. Investigators say Patel turned directly into the path of an oncoming Yamaha motorcycle traveling southbound.
The motorcycle, operated by a 31-year-old Zephyrhills man, collided with the Honda. The rider and his passenger, a 32-year-old Zephyrhills woman, were both ejected from the motorcycle upon impact.
Both victims suffered serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals. The motorcyclist later died from his injuries. The female passenger remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
According to FHP, Patel left the crash scene immediately after the collision and drove to his residence. Troopers later located him at his home and took him into custody.
Patel was arrested and charged with leaving the scene involving death, leaving the scene involving injuries, and leaving the scene involving property damage. He was transported to the Pasco County Jail.
The crash remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.