Largo police ask for tips in deadly hit-and-run

LARGO (FOX 13) - It was another deadly day on Bay Area roads, with two more hit and runs resulting in two more deaths.

And two drivers who did not stop. One happened in Tampa, and the other, in Largo.        

Largo police say William "John" English, Jr. was hit and killed by a vehicle while crossing the intersection of East Bay and Wetzel Drive. The driver didn’t stick around to help. 

Earlier Wednesday morning on Adamo Drive in Tampa, the victim also died at the scene while the driver sped away.

In both cases, investigators are searching to identify the vehicle and they need the public’s help.

“If someone did see something I hope they come to the news or the police and let them know.”

Randy Kowalczyk says John English lived with him for seven years. They were still close friends.

Kowalczyk says he actually passed the accident scene Wednesday morning but had no idea his friend was involved.

“I actually passed by the accident scene this morning, and my first thought was, ‘I hope John’s okay.’ Just thinking,” he said. “Well, you never know.”

He remembers his friend as candid and sharp for his age, with a legal background. Kowalczyk hopes whoever is responsible has the courage to come forward.

“This is something that shouldn’t have happened and I hope they are capable of checking the cameras. This isn’t the first time we’ve had a hit-and-run in the same area,” Kowalczyk said.

In the Largo case detectives are asking anyone with information to call the traffic homicide number at (727) 587-6730.