Authorities searching for driver who struck two teens and fled

PORT CHARLOTTE

Charlotte County deputies are wanting for a driver who struck two teens who have been on their bike on Thursday.

The teens have been using alongside US-41 in Port Charlotte close to Harbor Boulevard once they have been hit.

Two teens have been taken to the hospital, however they’re now again dwelling recovering.

The teen stated they have been using on an entry street about to merge onto US-41 when a automotive slammed into them from behind inflicting one of many teens to go airborne and smash into the windshield.

Their bike was crushed, smashed and dented.

“They’re looking straight-ahead,” stated Henry Latsetter, of Port Charlotte. “They don’t look side to side. They don’t know what’s there.”

Latsetter lives just a few blocks from the place the hit-and-run occurred. He stated folks velocity on the entry street all the time.

The velocity restrict is 30 mph and there’s a cease signal earlier than drivers can merge onto Tamiami Trail.

Crash investigators don’t suppose the driver will get far. There are a number of close by companies with surveillance cameras.

“Everyone has a cell phone camera, surveillance videos, businesses, you as a hit-and-run driver have to look over your shoulder now,” stated Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Greg Bueno.

The teens’ households are keen to seek out the individual accountable whereas the teens get well.

“I know, they are babies,” Latsetter stated. “Trying to take care of them and people don’t care.”

The youngsters consider the automotive that hit them is a gold SUV with a cracked windshield and a broken entrance bumper.

Anyone with data ought to contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office.