DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — A motorcyclist died after being hit by a pickup truck whose driver left the scene in Daytona Beach Sunday evening, the last day of Biketoberfest, troopers said.
Troopers said the fatal hit-and-run crash occurred on 13th Street and San Jose Boulevard around 5:10 p.m.
Photos: Motorcyclist killed in hit-and-run crash in Daytona Beach, troopers say
A 2004 Ford pickup was heading north on San Jose Boulevard when it ran a stop sign and crashed into the motorcyclist, troopers said.
"We heard a big boom," said Ron Adams, who witnessed the crash.
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The motorcyclist died at Halifax Medical Center, troopers said.
Troopers said the driver of the pickup truck -- a man wearing a red hat and white tank top and jean shorts -- got out of his truck and called someone on his cell phone.
"He knew that the man -- if not dead -- was dying for sure. Just a blatant disregard for human life," Adams said.
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Witnesses told investigators a white Nissan Altima showed up a few minutes later and picked up the truck driver and left the scene, troopers said.
Troopers are still actively investigating the crash and charges are pending, troopers said.
Anyone with information about the crash is urged to call 407-737-2213.
Read: Biketoberfest: Thousands of motorcyclists flock to Daytona Beach
Thousands of motorcyclists traveled to downtown Daytona Beach this weekend for the 25th annual Biketoberfest.
About 100,000 people typically attend the gathering, but attendance figures dipped to 40,000 last year because the festival was held one week after Hurricane Matthew tore through Central Florida.
The event began Thursday and ran through Sunday.
Daniel Myara, who owns Cruisin' Cafe, said the annual festival has grown significantly over the last 20 years.
"It's getting bigger and bigger," Myara said. "The more events, the better. I think we should have more events."
The Daytona Beach Police Department said it's partnering with the Florida Highway Patrol to police festival areas along Main Street, North Beach Street, Dr. May McLeod Bethune Boulevard and West International Speedway Boulevard.
Deputies from Volusia, Flagler and Seminole counties will also patrol Biketoberfest festivities to keep bikers safe and roadways clear.
Resident Jackie Johnston said she's confident this year's event will be as safe as those held in previous years.
"Everyone needs to do their share and do their part to be safe," Johnston said. "And to be just a part of a fun time."
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Increased security is on everyone's mind.
"It is high presence of the police, which is needed because of the sheer amount of people that are going to be in one little area in particular areas throughout the city," biker Chris Waddell said.
Drivers should expect traffic congestion on Main Street and on Ridegewood and Atlantic avenues through Sunday.
Cox Media Group
