Wesley Chapel Teen Killed, Community is Tired of Reckless Drivers

Wesley Chapel, FL - In a recent and tragic event that has deeply affected our community, a 17-year-old boy, identified as Andre by his mother, was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver on the evening of December 23rd. This heartbreaking incident occurred along Chancey Road, a location familiar to many in Wesley Chapel.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) reported that Andre was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk when he was hit by a dark gray 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The driver, who has yet to be identified, fled the scene without stopping to provide assistance leaving the child to die. This devastating news comes as a shock to our community.

In a swift response to an anonymous tip, FHP Troopers have since located and seized a vehicle possibly involved, a key step in their ongoing investigation. No arrests have been made at this time, but authorities are diligently working to bring justice to this case.

As Wesley Chapel continues to grow and develop, with new families and individuals calling it home, concerns about traffic safety have increasingly come to the forefront. This tragic event has amplified community concerns over ongoing issues of reckless driving, street racing, and general traffic violations in the newer areas of our community. Many residents report witnessing speeding and disregard for stop signs, raising alarm about the safety of pedestrians and other road users.

In light of these concerns, there is a growing call for more stringent traffic enforcement and community cooperation with safer driving. Residents are urging the Florida Highway Patrol and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office to take more aggressive actions to curb these dangerous behaviors. The goal is to ensure that our roads remain safe for everyone, from the youngest children to the elderly, as they go about their daily lives.

A memorial, featuring flowers, teddy bears, and an angel statue, has been set up across from the Haven at Meadow Pointe Community. This serves as a somber reminder of the life lost and the urgent need for action.

Andre's mother, Darleen, shared with the news that her family's recent move to Pasco County and the void left by this tragedy. She expressed a heartfelt plea for the driver involved to come forward in a TV interview.

Anyone with further information about this case is encouraged to contact the Florida Highway Patrol.