St. Pete police look for driver of red Jeep in fatal hit-and-run

ST PETERSBURG, Fla (FOX 13) - Police in St. Petersburg are working to arrest the driver they say hit a pedestrian, pulled over, and then sped off.

It happened on 4th Street North near 23rd Avenue around 9 p.m. Christmas Eve.

“[The victim came] out from the bar, started walking across the street, and that’s when they hit him,” witness to the crash, Thomas Lowe told FOX 13 News.

Police say Jeffrey Wade Wilson was crossing the street when he was hit by the driver of a red Jeep SUV.

After being hit by the Jeep, police say Wilson was then hit by a Fiat.

“We heard everyone screaming and everything,” Lowe said.

Both cars pulled over in the parking lot of an urgent care clinic, however, seconds later, the driver of the Jeep drove off.

Lowe says Wilson was a construction worker and rented a room across from his.

“He didn’t bother anybody,” Lowe said. “He just went over there to get himself a little buzzed and come on back. It was at Christmas. That’s sad!”

St Pete police have seen numerous deadly accidents involving pedestrians on the same stretch of roadway.

Lowe himself has scars from when a driver hit and left him. He survived, but now he wants to see justice for his friend who was not as lucky.

“I really hope they catch this guy,” Lowe said.

The St. Petersburg Police Department is looking for a small to midsize Jeep SUV; possibly red or maroon in color. The vehicle should have damage to the front. Anyone who may have seen the crash, or who may have information about the vehicle is asked to call 727-893-7780, or text SPPD + your tip to TIP411.