A tragic incident in St. Petersburg, Florida, has left the community reeling after a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee struck and killed a 70-year-old man. The victim, identified as Edward Webb Jr., was crossing the street near his home when the fatal collision occurred on Monday evening, October 21.
The St. Petersburg Police Department reported that the accident took place at approximately 9:05 p.m. at the intersection of 12th Street South and Ninth Avenue South. Eyewitnesses recounted that the stolen Jeep was speeding through the residential area, making a sharp turn onto Ninth Avenue South. It was at this critical moment that Webb, who resided just steps away from the intersection, was hit by the vehicle.
Despite immediate medical attention, Webb was rushed to Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. The fact that Webb was only feet from his home at the time of the accident adds an especially poignant layer to this heartbreaking event. The loss of a long-time community member has deeply affected those who knew him and raised pressing concerns about road safety in residential neighborhoods.
According to police reports, the driver of the Jeep did not stop following the collision. Instead, they sped away from the scene for two blocks before three young men exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Authorities have confirmed that the Jeep had been reported stolen earlier that same day, further complicating the investigation. The stolen vehicle’s journey, culminating in a fatality, is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and vehicle theft.
In response to this tragic event, St. Petersburg police are actively searching for the suspects involved in the hit-and-run. They are urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in identifying the individuals responsible for this crime. Authorities have established a contact line for tips: the St. Petersburg Police Department can be reached at (727) 893-7780.
This incident has sparked significant concern among residents regarding reckless driving in their neighborhoods. In the wake of Webb’s death, community members are voicing their fears about safety on local streets, especially as vehicle thefts continue to rise across the region. According to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities have been increasing, a trend that has left many residents feeling vulnerable.
Edward Webb Jr. was a beloved member of the St. Petersburg community, known for his friendly demeanor and active participation in local events. His sudden death has left a profound void, and mourning residents are now calling for justice and accountability. Friends and family have gathered to share memories and express their sorrow, emphasizing the impact that Webb had on those around him.
In a public statement, the St. Petersburg Police Department expressed their condolences to Webb’s family and assured the community that they are committed to bringing those responsible for this crime to justice. The investigation is ongoing, and police are determined to apprehend the suspects. Community members have been encouraged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.
As the investigation unfolds, the residents of St. Petersburg are left to grapple with the profound loss of Edward Webb Jr. and the unsettling fear that comes with living in a community where such tragedies can occur. The hope is that by raising awareness about the dangers of reckless driving and vehicle theft, measures can be implemented to enhance safety for all residents.
In conclusion, the tragic hit-and-run incident involving Edward Webb Jr. has served as a stark reminder of the risks faced by pedestrians and the ongoing issues of vehicle theft and reckless driving. As the community mourns, they stand united in their call for justice and safety, hoping for a future where no family has to endure such a heartbreaking loss.