A grim discovery under a bridge in Oakland Park early Wednesday has deputies investigating what they say appears to be a deadly hit-and-run.
Broward Sheriff's Office units were called to the area of West Prospect Road and Northwest 9th Avenue around 12:20 a.m. for a report of a possible death. When they arrived, they found a person under the bridge who was pronounced dead at the scene. Traffic homicide detectives have taken over, and officials have not yet released the victim's identity.
According to NBC 6 South Florida, deputies said the call came from the stretch of West Prospect Road near Northwest 9th Avenue and that the scene indicated the person had been struck and left behind. Anyone with information or video footage is urged to contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online. Authorities have not released a suspect description or a possible vehicle type.
Where It Happened
The scene sits along Prospect Road near Northwest 9th Avenue, a corridor transportation planners have already flagged for collisions. Planning documents from the Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization identify Prospect Road and nearby Oakland Park Boulevard as local crash hot spots and recommend a mix of short- and long-term safety upgrades, including raised crosswalks and pedestrian refuge islands. That this call came from under a bridge underscores ongoing concerns about visibility and pedestrian risk in the area.
Investigation
Traffic homicide detectives with the Broward Sheriff's Office are leading the investigation and plan to review any available footage or witness accounts that could help identify a vehicle or driver. No arrests have been announced, and investigators continue to process the scene and collect evidence.
Drivers who were in the area early Wednesday and may have dashcam or phone video are urged to reach out to detectives or submit tips through Crime Stoppers, as reported by NBC 6 South Florida.
Legal Consequences
Under Florida law, leaving the scene of a crash that results in death can be charged as a felony. Florida Statutes 316.027 outlines offenses for crashes that cause death or serious injury and provides the legal basis for felony charges. Sentencing for first-degree felonies can include decades behind bars under state guidelines.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Broward Sheriff's Office or Broward Crime Stoppers. Tips may be eligible for a reward. This story will be updated as investigators release more details.
