FHP asking for help solving 2 deadly hit and run crashes in Marion County

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MARION COUNTY, Fla. — State troopers are asking for help finding two drivers involved in separate fatal hit and run crashes in Marion County last week.

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The first crash occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16, on Sharpes Ferry Road just east of Northeast 68th Court near the Silver Springs State Park Campgrounds.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a vehicle struck a person on a bike in the area. The bicyclist was thrown from the bike and later died from their injuries.

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Based on the evidence found at the scene, troopers say they believe the vehicle that left the area is a 2010 to 2015 Chevrolet Equinox SUV that should have visible damage to the front-end.

According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, a pedestrian was struck and killed in a different hit and run crash there just two days later.

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Troopers say a vehicle hit a pedestrian on Northwest Gainesville Rd. just north of the intersection with Northwest 100th Place in Martin, near Bubba Raceway park.

According to FHP, the victim was found dead at approximately 8:30 a.m. Sunday.

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At some point during the day, troopers say the victim was walking in the roadway on Northwest Gainesville Road and was hit by a vehicle that subsequently left the scene.

According to FHP, debris from the accident suggests that the suspect vehicle was a dark gray 2007 to 2009 Acura MDX SUV that should also have visible damage to its front passenger-side section.

Troopers are asking anyone with information on either case to contact them by dialing *FHP on their phone.

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