Deputies from the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a fatal crash involving a deputy that occurred early this morning.
On July 14, 2024, at approximately 12:50 a.m., Deputy Lira-Rangel drove a fully marked agency-issued Chevrolet Tahoe southbound on 49th Street North in the median lane. According to investigators, as Deputy Lira-Rangel approached 58th Avenue North, an unknown female in a red pickup truck traveling northbound gestured towards the southbound lanes, attempting to alert the deputy to something ahead. This action diverted Deputy Lira-Rangel’s attention from the road. During this time, he felt a bump in the road, prompting him to stop and exit his vehicle to investigate. He then discovered 73-year-old Mark Hunter of Clearwater lying in the roadway in the median lane.
Witnesses reported seeing Hunter sitting in the southbound median lane of 49th Street before the accident. He was described as alert but appeared confused. Hunter was not in a designated crosswalk.
Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene, and his next of kin have been notified.
Investigators state that speed does not appear to be a factor in the incident, and it is currently unknown if impairment was a factor for Hunter.
The investigation is ongoing.
The crash occurred at approximately 12:49 a.m. on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
Based on preliminary information, a pedestrian was struck while in the southbound lanes of 49th Street and died at the scene. During the investigation, the southbound lanes were closed at 62nd Avenue N for several hours.
IONTB expects information from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office regarding the crash soon, and an update will be provided at that time.