TAMPA, FL - A 34-year-old Tampa, Florida, woman was arrested after authorities say she fled the scene of a fatal collision that claimed the life of a 82-year-old pedestrian.
In a July 30 press release, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of 34-year-old Danielle Grant, who is accused of fatally striking an elderly pedestrian with her vehicle during the early morning hours of July 26.
According to authorities, 82-year-old Francisco Lugo was crossing the intersection of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and North 43rd Street with the assistance of a walker at approximately 12:26 a.m. when he was struck by a northbound dark-colored Kia Sorento. After a 911 caller reported the collision, first responders arrived at the scene, where Hillsborough County Fire Rescue personnel pronounced Lugo dead.
According to the sheriff’s office, detectives identified Grant as the driver of the suspect vehicle. Authorities allege she failed to stop and render aid or contact law enforcement following the collision. Investigators later obtained a warrant charging Grant with leaving the scene of a crash involving death. Officials confirmed she turned herself in at the Orient Road Jail on July 30.
Following Grant’s arrest, Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized that fleeing the scene of a fatal crash carries serious consequences.
“Leaving the scene after taking someone's life isn't an accident, it's a choice, and it's a crime. Our detectives worked tirelessly to track down the person responsible, and this arrest makes it clear: if you break the law and endanger this community, we will find you and hold you accountable. We hope this arrest brings Mr. Lugo's family some measure of justice as they grieve this devastating loss,” Sheriff Chronister stated.
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