Cops: Sarasota Hit-And-Run Driver Arrested

The Sarasota Police Department has a man in custody following a fatal Tuesday hit-and-run crash that killed 48-year-old Michael Wright.

According to the department, Malik Clyburn, 19, of Sarasota turned himself into authorities at 12:30 a.m. Thursday. Clyburn, who police say confessed to being the driver, faces leaving the scene of a crash that resulted in death and driving on a suspended license charges. His first court appearance is set for Thursday afternoon.

The crash that led to Clyburn’s arrest occurred Tuesday around 8:45 p.m. Police said Wright was crossing the intersection of 17th Street and U.S. 301 in a wheelchair when he was struck by a vehicle. That vehicle left the scene.

Wright, who was in the crosswalk at the time of the crash, was taken to a local hospital for treatment. His death was announced Wednesday morning.

The crash led to an extensive search for the motorist responsible. Police released photos from the scene, along with video.

Police say Clyburn was driving a 2012 four-door Kia Optima at the time of the crash.

Clyburn is being held at the Sarasota County Jail in lieu of $20,120 bond.

Booking photo courtesy of the Sarasota Police Department