Pasco neighbor arrested for DUI after hit-and-run involving toddler, troopers say

PORT RICHEY, Fla. (FOX 13) - A Port Richey motorcyclist is the suspect in a hit-and-run accident that sent a 2-year-old to the hospital, troopers said.

Florida Highway Patrol troopers arrested 63-year-old Buddy Jay Kline at his home Sunday night, and he faces a DUI charge. Kline, who lives a few homes away from the accident, is accused of operating his motorcycle when he struck the toddler in the 7300 block of Oak Crest Drive, according to troopers. They said he fled from the scene.

The young girl was flown to the hospital following the accident. The girl’s family told FOX 13 on Monday morning that she was doing better, and is still recovering at the hospital.

Family members said the girl was playing basketball with other children when the ball rolled out into the street. They said she chased after the ball before she was hit. The impact knocked Kline and his passenger from his bike, investigators said. Both argued with the toddler's parents, got back on the motorcycle and fled the scene.

Along with the DUI charge, Kline faces a charge for leaving the scene of an accident. He will face a Pasco County judge Monday morning.