A 19-year-old Plant City resident was killed late Sunday after a pickup truck hit him as he and another person tried to cross South County Road 39 near Tipton Road, according to investigators. The collision happened at 11:42 p.m. on May 24 over Memorial Day weekend. Deputies said the driver initially kept going, then later called 911 to report the crash.
Investigators identified the driver as 27-year-old Daniel Mariano Jr. Deputies said they found him and his truck several miles from the scene with visible damage and signs of impairment. The victim was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead, and Mariano was arrested and booked on charges that include leaving the scene of a crash involving death and violation of probation for resisting with violence, Tampa Free Press reported. Officials said more charges could follow, depending on the results of a blood toxicology test.
What investigators say
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister called the case a grim reminder of the risks of impaired driving. "Driving under the influence puts everyone on the road at risk," he said, describing the crash as both tragic and preventable, according to Tampa Free Press. Deputies said Mariano left the scene, then later contacted 911, and investigators tracked him down after searching the surrounding area. The sheriff's office noted the pickup showed significant damage and said detectives are working to pull together witness video and forensic evidence as the investigation moves forward.
Plant City traffic toll this month
This latest fatality adds to a rough month on Plant City roads. Less than two weeks earlier, a separate crash killed a 14-year-old bicyclist, as reported in Teen Cyclist Killed In Pickup Crash. Local safety advocates say the string of deadly incidents is fueling calls for better lighting, safer crossings and more attentive driving near neighborhoods and school routes.
How to help investigators
Deputies are asking anyone who saw the crash or has video of the area to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office through Tip411 or by calling the nonemergency line at (813) 247-8200. Tips can be shared through the HCSO mobile app, by texting CTYTIP to 847411, or online. The sheriff's office lists its reporting options on its Tip411 page. Officials said that even brief clips from doorbell or dash cameras can be crucial in hit-and-run cases.
Potential charges
Under Florida law, leaving the scene of a crash that results in death is a felony, and prosecutors can add charges based on toxicology findings or other evidence. The statute spells out a driver's duty to stop, provide information and offer aid at the scene. For legal context, see Fla. Stat. 316.027. County prosecutors will review the investigation and lab results before deciding on any additional counts.
