St. Petersburg Woman Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run
Police charged a 19-year-old driver in connection with a crash that killed a man on a scooter in August.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Accidents
St. Petersburg police arrested 19-year-old Jaida Thomas-McFatten on Tuesday for a fatal hit-and-run collision. A 37-year-old man riding a standing electric scooter died at the scene after being struck by a sedan.
Why it matters
The arrest comes after a lengthy investigation into the August incident. Authorities sought the suspect to face charges related to the victim's death.
Jaida Thomas-McFatten faces a charge of leaving the scene of a crash involving death. The arrest was executed on October 13, 2026, following the incident that took place on August 19, 2026.
The players
Jaida Thomas-McFatten
She is a 19-year-old resident who was taken into police custody on a warrant.
The details
The crash occurred shortly before 10 p.m. at 5th Avenue North and Tyrone Boulevard North. Investigators determined the suspect was driving a Toyota sedan westbound when she struck the victim, who was traveling on a scooter outside of a crosswalk.
Timeline
August 19, 2026: The fatal crash occurred shortly before 10 p.m.
October 13, 2026: The suspect was arrested on a warrant.
Legal Context
This case follows strict protocols under Florida Statute 316.027 regarding the duties of a driver involved in a fatal accident. Local authorities frequently utilize these specific statutes to hold drivers accountable when they flee the scene of a crash.
The arrest provides closure for an investigation into a fatal crash that occurred in a busy intersection of the city. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when sharing the road with cyclists and scooter riders, especially during night hours.
The takeaway
Drivers are legally obligated to remain at the scene of any accident involving death or injury. This case serves as a somber reminder of the severe legal consequences for those who choose to leave the scene of a crash.
Further reading
For more information on traffic safety in the region, visit the St. Petersburg accidents section.
