The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a driver accused of leaving the scene of a hit-and-run crash that killed an 82-year-old man.
On July 26, 2026, at 12:26 a.m., HCSO's 911 Dispatch Center received a call about a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash at the intersection of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and North 43rd Street.
Deputies arriving at the scene found the pedestrian, later identified as Francisco Lugo, 82, unresponsive. They immediately began lifesaving measures until Hillsborough County Fire Rescue arrived and pronounced Lugo deceased at the scene.
Detectives determined Lugo was walking with his walker in the intersection when he was struck by a dark-colored Kia Sorento traveling northbound. The driver left the scene without stopping to render aid or report the collision.
Detectives identified the vehicle and determined Danielle Grant, 34, was driving at the time of the crash. Investigators obtained a warrant charging Grant with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death.
Grant turned herself in at the Orient Road Jail on July 30, 2026.
"Leaving the scene after taking someone's life isn't an accident, it's a choice, and it's a crime," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our detectives worked tirelessly to track down the person responsible, and this arrest makes it clear: if you break the law and endanger this community, we will find you and hold you accountable. We hope this arrest brings Mr. Lugo's family some measure of justice as they grieve this devastating loss."
This remains an active investigation. The Public Affairs Office will provide any updates.
