ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – A St. Augustine woman faces a felony charge after allegedly striking an e-bike rider in a crosswalk and leaving the scene without rendering aid, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
The suspect, a 49-year-old St. Augustine resident, was arrested at approximately 3:40 p.m. on Sept. 17, near the intersection of State Road 16 and Masters Drive in St. Augustine.
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What happened
According to the arrest report, a deputy on scene observed the suspect’s black Nissan SUV run over a victim’s e-bike while the rider was in the crosswalk at SR-16 and Masters Drive.
The deputy witnessed the suspect exit the driver’s side of the vehicle as the victim walked to the sidewalk, then re-enter her car and leave the scene. The suspect did not attempt to provide her information or render medical aid to the victim, according to the report.
Victim’s injuries
The victim told deputies that the suspect’s vehicle ran over the e-bike and caused injuries to the victim’s right arm and right inner leg. Investigators noted that the victim’s right hand began to turn purple and swell while they spoke on scene.
The victim ultimately refused care from St. Johns County Fire Rescue but provided a sworn statement detailing the incident.
Driver’s account
After being read her Miranda rights, the suspect told deputies she was turning right onto Masters Drive from SR-16 when she saw the victim in the crosswalk. She said she turned her head to check for additional pedestrians before accelerating.
The suspect gave contradicting statements about whether she believed she had struck the bicycle, ultimately saying she “guessed she hit the bicyclist,” according to the report.
She also told investigators she did not stay on scene, did not attempt to render aid, and wanted to contact someone else before calling law enforcement.
Charges, booking
The suspect was charged with one felony count of failing to stop and remain at a crash involving injury other than serious bodily injury.
She was booked into the St. Johns County Jail the same day. Bond was set at $2,500. The charge is listed as pending.