85-Year-Old Florida Man Admits He ‘Knew He Hit Something’ After Running Over 91-Year-Old Woman in Publix Parking Lot
ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA — An 85-year-old man has been charged after allegedly running over a 91-year-old woman in a grocery store parking lot, admitting later that he “knew he hit something” but chose to drive home instead of stopping.
According to St. Petersburg police, the incident occurred around 5 p.m. Friday in the parking lot of a Publix supermarket, where Darrell Briggs struck Mary Broughton, who later died from her injuries.
Police: Driver Left Scene Knowing He Hit Something
Investigators said Briggs, who was driving alone, struck Broughton as she walked through the parking lot. Instead of stopping, he allegedly continued driving out of the lot and returned to his apartment.
Police tracked him down later that evening using surveillance footage and witness reports, eventually locating the vehicle matching the description of the one seen leaving the crash scene.
When questioned, Briggs allegedly told officers he realized he hit “something” but did not stop to check, according to court documents obtained by WFLA.
Victim Died After Being Rushed to Hospital
Emergency responders transported Mary Broughton to a nearby hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead shortly after arrival. The Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled her death a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
Broughton was remembered by local residents as a kind and active woman, known to frequently shop at the same Publix near her home. The tragedy has reignited local discussions about elderly driver safety in busy public areas.
Suspect Released on Bond, Investigation Continues
Briggs was arrested and booked into the Pinellas County Jail on one count of leaving the scene of a crash involving death, a felony under Florida law. He later posted a $50,000 bond and was released Sunday, pending his next court appearance.
St. Petersburg police said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed depending on the results of the full crash reconstruction report.
As authorities continue to investigate, the tragedy serves as a reminder of the dangers of driver inattention — particularly in pedestrian-heavy areas. For continued updates on local crime and safety news across Florida and beyond, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.