Tampa Police Detectives are investigating a fatal hit-and-run crash involving a motor vehicle and a bicyclist. On 10/24/2023 at 8:16 PM, officers responded to the 1900 block of E. 21st Ave and located a 57-year-old male bicyclist in the roadway unresponsive after being struck by a car. Although lifesaving measures were performed, the bicyclist who was later identified as Darrell Lee Lawson, ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The Lawson family has approved the release of his information in the hope that it will encourage someone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
“Our thoughts are with the family of Mr. Lawson during this difficult time,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “We are committed to making our shared roadways safe for all users, and our investigators will work tirelessly to identify and apprehend those involved in this tragedy. It is unacceptable for anyone to hit another person with their vehicle and then flee without stopping to check on them or call for help.”
Detectives continue to gather evidence and develop leads to identify the driver of the car that fled the scene after striking Lawson. The car, a light blue, gray, or possibly silver, sedan, was last seen eastbound on E. 21st Ave. Detectives are asking those who live in the area to check their own video footage for any recordings that may assist in this active investigation.
Anyone who may have information about this incident or who may have witnessed it is asked to call Tampa Police at 813.231.6130, or contact Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at 800.873.TIPS (8477).