Crime & Safety
Reward Offered in Fatal Pasco Hit-And-Run
The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for information in the death of a 41-year-old man in Port Richey.

It’s been almost a month since Thomas Edward Howell died while walking on U.S. 19 in the Port Richey area. The driver of the truck involved in the accident remains at large.
The Florida Highway Patrol would like to change that, and Crime Stoppers has stepped forward with a $3,000 reward to help close the case. The reward is available to anyone with information that leads to an arrest in the fatal hit-and-run.
According to troopers, Howell, 41, of Weeki Wachee was walking northbound on U.S. 19 around 11:09 p.m. July 30. He was in the outside right turn lane when a red Dodge pickup truck struck him and dragged him for more than 40 feet before taking off northbound on U.S. 19.
Find out what's happening in New Port Richeyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Troopers say the driver was in a late model, extended cab Dodge that likely suffered damaged to its front right side.
Howell died at the scene.
Find out what's happening in New Port Richeyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-873-TIPS. Anonymous tips may also be submitted online at www.crimestopperstb.com. Tips may also be submitted directly to the highway patrol by calling 813-631-4020.
Photo courtesy of the Florida Highway Patrol
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.