Search Underway for Hit-and-Run Driver Who Injured 8 Teens Near UCF

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – A driver involved in a hit-and-run crash near the University of Central Florida remained at large after eight teenagers were taken to hospitals Friday night, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

The crash occurred at about 7:50 p.m. near Technological Avenue and University Boulevard, according to troopers. A 2007 Honda Fit struck the rear of a 2020 Honda Civic, pushing that vehicle into a group of teenagers on the sidewalk after it collided with a 2025 Honda Civic.

All eight teenagers were transported to area hospitals. One victim was taken to a hospital as a trauma alert.

Eight Teenagers Injured, Ages 15 to 18

FHP said the eight victims included four 15-year-olds, two 16-year-olds, one 17-year-old and one 18-year-old. Each teenager was walking along the sidewalk when the crash occurred.

Evidence of the collision was still visible Saturday. A metal pole had been bent nearly in half and torn from the ground, underscoring the force of the impact.

Honda Fit Driver Abandoned Car and Fled

The driver of the Honda Fit left the vehicle in a nearby hotel parking lot and fled on foot, according to FHP. Witnesses provided troopers with a license plate number, allowing investigators to find and impound the car as evidence.

The two other drivers involved in the crash stayed at the scene. They were an 18-year-old woman who was driving the 2025 Honda Civic and a 21-year-old man who was behind the wheel of the 2020 Honda Civic, FHP said.

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Simon Jiaclone, a UCF student, said the crash felt especially close to home.

“It’s just heartbreaking that that stuff happens,” Jiaclone said. “You got to be safe and you got to take precaution — especially if you’re behind the wheel.”

He also urged the driver who fled to come forward.

“I hope that you just turn yourself in,” Jiaclone said. “That’s a hit and run. That’s no joke. And these are kids. That’s sad.”

FHP Seeks Information From the Public

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information about the driver is asked to contact FHP at *347 or CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS. The investigation remains ongoing.