UPDATE: A tragic hit-and-run incident occurred early this morning on January 1, 2025, claiming the life of a cyclist on Southside Boulevard in Jacksonville, Florida. The driver of a Dodge Challenger struck the cyclist and fled the scene, prompting an urgent search by authorities.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the cyclist was riding north in the designated bike lane when the vehicle collided with the rear of the bike, throwing the rider onto the shoulder. Despite immediate medical attention, the victim was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The individual has not yet been identified.
Steve Tocknell, president of the nonprofit organization Pedal for Safety, expressed deep concern about the incident, highlighting that many drivers are unaware of their legal obligation to share the road with cyclists. “Bicycles have all of the same rights and privileges as any other vehicle, and they need to be respected as if the bicycle is a car,” he stated.
“He’s got family. He’s got friends. He may have children. It’s a loss to everyone — not just the victim. And a lot of these fatalities are preventable,” Tocknell added.
Authorities report that the driver of the Dodge Challenger, which is registered in Pennsylvania, fled on foot after the collision. The Florida Highway Patrol is actively investigating the incident and urges anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
This incident marks a concerning trend in Jacksonville, where fatalities involving cyclists have seen a sharp increase in recent years. With three pedestrian deaths reported in the past week alone, community advocates are calling for greater awareness and stricter enforcement of road-sharing laws.
The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the ongoing investigation. As the search for the driver continues, local officials and safety advocates stress the importance of road safety for all users.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The safety of cyclists and pedestrians remains a critical issue for the Jacksonville community.
