Polk Sheriff Seeks Hit-And-Run Driver Who Struck Bicyclist

DAVENPORT, FL -- The Polk County Sheriff's Office is continuing to search for the driver who hit a 69-year-old bicyclist and then left him lying on the side of the road.

Barry Berland of Boca Raton was riding his recumbent bike in the bike lane on Ernie Caldwell Parkway near U.S. 17 at about 7:15 a.m. Friday, July 13, when he was struck from behind.

He was found by another driver and airlifted to Osceola Regional Hospital where he is being treated for serious injuries. Berland was wearing a helmet, reflective clothing, was riding in the bicycle lane and his bicycle was very well equipped with safety equipment, including flashers.

Deputies do not have a description of the vehicle that hit him.

Detectives are asking that anyone who was driving in the area of Ernie Caldwell Boulevard between 7 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. and saw anything suspicious to call the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at (863) 298-6200 or call Crime Stoppers at 800-226-TIPS (8477).

Image via Polk Sheriff

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