News Release

Pinellas Park Police Department

Serious Injury Crash - US 19 and 78th Avenue North

At approximately 9:30 p.m. tonight, two adult pedestrians were struck by a northbound car as they attempted to cross the street.  An adult male suffered life threatening injuries and a female suffered non-life threatening injuries.  Both were transported to local hospitals. The occupants of the car were uninjured.

The driver of the car stopped immediately.  Traffic homicide investigators are on the scene conducting the investigation.

UPDATE:

The roadway has been cleared. Northbound US 19 traffic was down to one lane for approximately 3 hours.

The male pedestrian has been identified as Robert Lee Maynard, age: 50, homeless

The female pedestrian has been identified as Susan Carol. Leonardis, age: 47, homeless

Maynard and Leonardis have been recently residing in a wooded area near the intersection.

Both pedestrians have been hospitalized and Leonardis' condition has worsened.  Both suffered multiple injuries to various portions of their body.

The driver of the car has been identified as Theodore Turner, a male,age 18, Clearwater, FL.  He was driving a Silver 2001 Saturn 4 door.

Witnesses indicate that Mr. Maynard and Ms. Leonardis were crossing age the street westbound, carrying groceries, when they stepped into the path of the Saturn.  There is no indication of impairment, nor excessive speed, on the part of the driver.  Although the traffic homicide investigators are continuing their investigation, no charges are expected at this stage.

Additional releases will follow if the pedestrians status changes or if pertinent new information is developed.

Released by: Lieutenant Paul Andrews, PIO, 541-0787