High-Speed Hit-And-Run Accident Kills Pedestrian Early Saturday Morning In Clearwater
Michael Babboni
Crash Reports
CLEARWATER FL - A man from Clearwater has been taken into custody in relation to a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred early on Saturday, according to an official press release from the Clearwater Police Department.22-year-old Christian Hooks, also from Clearwater Florida, has been charged with DUI manslaughter. He was reportedly driving northbound on Missouri Avenue at high speed when he hit a pedestrian. Following the incident, Hooks was located, arrested, and subsequently booked into the Pinellas County Jail.
The Clearwater Police Department indicated that the event took place around 12:42 a.m. near Druid Road on Missouri Avenue. The victim, identified as 34-year-old Joshua Maxson, was found lying in the road following emergency calls. When officers arrived at the scene, Maxson was already deceased.
The press release also noted that Hooks was under the influence at the time of the incident and did not pass field sobriety tests. Breath sample results registered at .217 and .223, which exceed Florida's legal blood alcohol limit of .08.
Hooks is currently detained in the Pinellas County Jail.
For attorney Michael Babboni in Saint Petersburg, these tragic and avoidable incidents reiterate the importance of responsible driving. If you or a loved one have been affected by such a circumstance, we are here to provide legal assistance and guide you through the process. Feel free to reach out to us for any related legal support.