Hit-and-run driver accused of fatally striking 39-year-old man in Lighthouse Point found in Boca Raton

Broward County, Florida – A driver accused of leaving the scene of a fatal hit-and-run crash in Lighthouse Point has been located, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

The incident happened Sunday night at the intersection of Northeast 49th Street and North Federal Highway, where deputies responded to a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian riding a stand-up scooter.

According to investigators, the 39-year-old man was crossing the street when he was struck by a gray Toyota Corolla. The impact left the man seriously injured.

Instead of remaining at the scene, deputies said the driver left following the collision. The injured man was taken to a hospital for treatment, but he later died from his injuries.

Authorities have not released the victim’s identity. Deputies identified him only as a 39-year-old man.

The fatal crash prompted an investigation by BSO detectives, who worked to determine who was behind the wheel of the vehicle involved in the collision.

Read also: Emergency sewer main repair underway at Miami Road and SE 15th Street in Harbordale with road restrictions expected through Friday

As the investigation continued, detectives located both the suspected driver and the Toyota Corolla in Boca Raton. The driver was identified as Gustavo Mendez.

The discovery of Mendez and the vehicle marked a development in the investigation after the driver allegedly fled the Lighthouse Point crash.

Authorities have not provided additional details about what led detectives to the vehicle or how Mendez was located in Boca Raton.

It was also unclear whether Mendez had been arrested in connection with the crash. Officials had not released information about possible charges at the time of the report.

Read also: Town of Davie hosts community collection drive through August 26 to support Colombia earthquake relief efforts and families affected by the disaster

The investigation remains focused on the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the events immediately before and after the man was struck.

The crash serves as another reminder of the dangers faced by pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, particularly at busy intersections. In this case, investigators are also examining the circumstances surrounding the driver’s departure from the scene.

Further information about the investigation and any potential charges could be released by authorities as the case develops.