MIDDLEBURG, Fla. – A section of County Road 218 in Middleburg was shut down Tuesday morning while Traffic Units conducted an investigation into a Monday night hit-and-run, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said.
The road was scheduled to be closed at North Mimosa Avenue from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, according to a Tweet from the Sheriff’s Office. But an update that the road was reopened wasn’t posted until about 12 p.m.
#UPDATE: CR 218 at Mimosa is back open. https://t.co/KzbIt6zbY6
— Clay County Sheriff's Office, FL (@ccsofl) January 25, 2022
Deputies said the investigation was related to a crash Monday night just after 9 p.m. They said a pedestrian was hit by a vehicle on C.R. 218 near Mimosa and the driver left the scene. The pedestrian’s condition worsened Tuesday morning, prompting investigators to return to the scene.
Anyone with information on the hit-and-run is asked to contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at 904-264-6512.
Meanwhile, state investigators are still looking for a PT Cruiser involved in another hit-and-run at that intersection Saturday night that killed a bicyclist.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, that crash happened just before 7:30 p.m. Saturday on North Mimosa Avenue near C.R. 218. Investigators said a 45-year-old man was riding a bicycle in the area when a PT Cruiser hit him and the driver left the scene.
RELATED: Middleburg resident raises sidewalk concerns after 2 fatal crashes involving bicycles
The bicyclist died before reaching the hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the FHP report.
Investigators with the Florida Highway Patrol are searching for the driver and vehicle, which is believed to be a white 2001-2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. FHP said the car will have right front and hood damage and is missing its right headlight.
If you see the vehicle or have any information about the driver, you’re urged to dial *347 for FHP or 911. To make an anonymous report call CrimeStoppers at 1-866-845-8477.
UPDATE: Hit & Run Fatality in Clay County: Mimosa Ave @ Johns Cemetery Rd.
— FHPJacksonville (@FHPJacksonville) January 23, 2022
We are looking for a 2001-2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, white in color. Vehicle has right front damage, missing right headlight, and hood damage. Any information, please call *FHP or CrimeStoppers. pic.twitter.com/0wsIAocI9M
According to details from FHP, it was one of two deadly crashes that happened within six miles of one another on Saturday evening in Middleburg.
On Monday, News4JAX spoke to a man who lives in the area near where they happened who said he has concerns about the lack of sidewalks.
“A sidewalk would be outstanding for as many people I see walking and riding bikes,” the man said.
On Tuesday, News4JAX also spoke with Kit Tshanakas, who walks on C.R. 218 everyday but has concerns.
“There are no lights,” Tshanakas said.
Clay County Commissioner Betsy Condon said improvements are coming.
“We are seeking funding for additional sidewalks and bike paths on County Road 218 as the project moves forward for the widening,” Condon said. “We intend to widen County Road 218 from Blanding Boulevard eventually out to Bluejay [Drive].”
In addition, the county wants to extend a multi-use path along C.R. 218 beyond Mimosa Avenue. The plan includes sidewalks and bike lanes on both sides of C.R. 218. Work is set to be completed by fall 2023.
“We know that as the more rural areas are developing and becoming more populated, we are going to have to accommodate others forms of transportation,” Condon said. “And really that what has happened here.”