Search Is On For White Corolla Driven In Fatal Hit, Run: CMPD

CHARLOTTE, NC — Police are searching for the driver responsible for a fatal hit and run of a bicyclist Monday evening, and are asking for the community’s help locating a white Toyota Corolla with front damage.

According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, 24-year-old Franklin David Leal was riding a bicycle in the 8300 block of Harrisburg Road around 11 p.m. Feb. 17 when he was hit from behind by an unknown car. The driver of the vehicle, which is believed to be a white Toyota Corolla, did not stop and fled the scene.

A passing motorist who did not see the crash spotted Leal and his damaged bicycle in the roadway and called 911 shortly before 11 p.m., police said.

Leal pronounced dead on the scene. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, police said.

“Vehicle debris collected at the scene determined the unknown suspect vehicle is a white 2005-2008 Toyota Corolla,” CMPD said. The Corolla will likely have a broken headlight on the front right side of the car and is missing the passenger side front bumper cover. The car may also have hood and windshield damage, police said.

CMPD said that anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact Detective Oberer at (704) 432-2169 or Crime Stoppers at (704) 334-1600.