West Palm Beach, FL (December 9, 2024) – A 44-year-old man from Altamonte Springs was tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident late Friday night. The victim, identified as Drew Robert Winters, was attempting to cross 45th St, west of the I-95 interchange, when he was struck by a silver car that fled the scene.
Emergency responders from the West Palm Beach Fire Department arrived following a 911 call at approximately 11:05 PM reporting an unconscious man in the roadway. Paramedics pronounced Winters dead shortly after arriving.
West Palm Beach Police’s traffic homicide unit determined that the driver, operating a silver sedan with front-end and windshield damage, sped off after the collision. Two westbound lanes on 45th St were closed for about four hours while investigators collected evidence and documented the scene.
The police are urging anyone with information about the incident or the vehicle involved to come forward to assist in their investigation.
Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida
Florida consistently reports a high number of hit-and-run accidents, with incidents like this on 45th St highlighting the devastating consequences for victims and their families. Pedestrians crossing busy roads near highway interchanges are particularly vulnerable, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced.
Victims of hit-and-run accidents and their families face emotional and financial challenges, including funeral expenses and loss of income. Investigations into these incidents rely heavily on witness accounts, video surveillance, and public tips to identify and locate fleeing drivers.
Florida law imposes severe penalties on hit-and-run drivers, including potential prison time and fines, particularly in cases involving fatalities. Pedestrians are reminded to exercise caution when crossing roadways, while drivers are urged to adhere to traffic laws and remain at the scene of any accident.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, Local Accident Reports is here to provide guidance and support. Contact us today to understand your rights and next steps during this difficult time.