Person of Interest Identified, Vehicle Located in Fatal Leon County Hit-and-Run, FHP Says
LEON COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officials announced Thursday afternoon that they have identified a person of interest and located the vehicle involved in a fatal hit-and-run that occurred late Sunday night near the intersection of Highway 20 and Jay Bird Lane.
While authorities stopped short of releasing the name or further identifying information about the individual, they confirmed that the case is actively progressing with the development. The person of interest is connected to a crash that claimed the life of a woman, whose identity has also not yet been made public pending next-of-kin notification.
The Incident
The fatal collision occurred late Sunday evening in a rural stretch of western Leon County. According to initial reports from FHP, the suspected vehicle was described as a white, older-model SUV. Witnesses and passersby reportedly found the female victim lying on or near the roadway after the SUV fled the scene.
Emergency services were dispatched to the location near Highway 20 and Jay Bird Lane shortly after the crash, but tragically, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact time of the collision has not been released, though it occurred under nighttime conditions, which may have complicated visibility.
Vehicle Traced, Investigation Moves Forward
In the days following the incident, law enforcement officials issued a public call for assistance in locating the vehicle and identifying the driver. Surveillance footage from surrounding properties, coupled with tips from the community, is believed to have played a significant role in tracing the SUV.
On Thursday, FHP confirmed that the vehicle matching the initial description—a white, older-model SUV—has now been located and is in their possession for forensic examination. Investigators will inspect the vehicle for damage consistent with the impact as well as any physical evidence that may help confirm who was driving at the time of the crash.
Despite these breakthroughs, the Florida Highway Patrol has withheld the name of the person of interest and other key details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Community Demands Justice
The hit-and-run has shaken the tight-knit Leon County community, especially those living near Jay Bird Lane. Residents are expressing frustration and sorrow over the fatal incident and calling for accountability.
“This was someone’s daughter, sister, friend. You don’t just leave a person behind like that,” said local resident Cheryl Harris. “We’re relieved to hear they’ve found the vehicle and someone connected to it. But we need to see justice done.”
Many in the area have raised concerns about the stretch of Highway 20 where the incident took place, describing it as poorly lit with limited shoulder space—factors that could contribute to dangerous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians, particularly at night.
Legal and Investigative Process Underway
As the investigation unfolds, FHP is expected to work closely with state attorneys to determine what charges—if any—may be brought against the person of interest. In Florida, leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death is a felony offense that carries severe penalties, including prison time, license revocation, and fines.
Legal experts note that the identification of a person of interest does not equate to an arrest or formal accusation, but it is a significant step toward bringing closure to the victim’s family.
Meanwhile, investigators continue to urge anyone who may have been in the area Sunday night, or who may have additional information or footage, to contact the Florida Highway Patrol or local Crime Stoppers.
Ongoing Vigil and Memorial Efforts
A roadside memorial is already growing at the site of the crash. Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes mark the area near the intersection, as community members pay their respects to the unidentified victim.
A vigil is reportedly being planned by local residents for the upcoming weekend, as the community mourns the loss and awaits justice.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to call FHP or submit tips anonymously through Florida Crime Stoppers.
Stay with us for continuing updates as this story develops.