Davenport, Florida — A man accused of causing a hit-and-run crash in Central Florida has been arrested after investigators tracked him down with the help of another sheriff’s office, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as Jose Valero-Colina, allegedly rear-ended another vehicle in Davenport and fled the scene before deputies later located him. Investigators also confirmed that the suspect was in the United States illegally, and an immigration detainer has now been placed on him while he remains in custody.
The incident has drawn attention after officials released details about how the crash occurred and how the suspect was eventually located.
Crash happened while victim was stopped at an intersection
According to deputies, the crash occurred when the victim’s vehicle was stopped at a stop sign while attempting to turn south onto Lake Wilson Road in Davenport.
The driver told authorities that a silver Kia struck her vehicle from behind while she was waiting at the intersection.
The victim reported to 911 that another vehicle hit her from behind while she was stopped at a stop sign.
After the collision, the victim reportedly approached the driver of the other vehicle to confront him about the crash.
However, investigators say the driver quickly fled the area, heading southbound on Lake Wilson Road before authorities could arrive.
Detectives tracked the suspect to Orlando
Following the hit-and-run report, detectives began investigating the crash and were able to identify the suspected driver.
Through investigative resources, deputies determined that Valero-Colina lived in Orlando, prompting the Polk County Sheriff’s Office to request assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies from Orange County went to the suspect’s residence, where they made contact with his wife.
According to investigators, the suspect’s wife told deputies that he had been involved in a crash and fled because he was nervous.
While deputies were still at the home, Valero-Colina reportedly arrived in the same silver Kia involved in the crash.
Authorities say he informed deputies that he would return to Polk County to provide details about the incident.
Suspect later admitted to crash and leaving scene
Investigators say the suspect later met with Polk County deputies and admitted to being involved in the crash.
According to law enforcement, Valero-Colina told deputies he struck the victim’s vehicle because he failed to notice she had stopped at the intersection.
He also acknowledged that he left the scene after the crash because he was afraid.
Deputies say the suspect admitted he hit the vehicle and fled the scene out of fear.
Following the investigation, authorities charged him with leaving the scene of a crash, which is considered a criminal offense in Florida.
Charge increased due to immigration status
Officials say the charge against the suspect was enhanced under Florida law because he was found to be in the United States illegally.
In addition to the criminal charge, deputies issued two traffic citations, including:
- Failure to provide information after a crash
- Careless driving
Authorities also contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which confirmed that the suspect was in the country illegally and placed an immigration detainer on him at the jail.
This means immigration officials may take custody of him once local legal proceedings are completed.
Sheriff says accountability is important for road safety
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized that leaving the scene of a crash can create additional dangers and that offenders will be held responsible.
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“Our roads are safer when everyone follows the law. Leaving the scene of a crash puts others at risk, and we will always hold offenders accountable.”
Law enforcement officials frequently warn drivers that leaving the scene of an accident can result in serious criminal penalties, even if the initial crash appears minor.
Authorities say drivers involved in crashes should remain at the scene, exchange information, and cooperate with law enforcement.
The investigation into the incident has now been completed, and the suspect remains in custody while the case moves forward through the legal process.
What are your thoughts on hit-and-run incidents and the penalties for leaving the scene of a crash? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
