Bicyclist, 70, Struck and Killed Near Eau Gallie Boulevard in Melbourne; Suspect Vehicle Fled Scene

bicyclist identified as James Griffin, 70, of Melbourne

BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA — Melbourne police are investigating a deadly hit-and-run crash early Wednesday morning that claimed the life of a bicyclist.

According to Melbourne Police Department Commander Shawn Eising, officers responded to the intersection of Eau Gallie Boulevard and Highland Avenue around 5:33 a.m. after reports of a collision between a car and a bicyclist.

When officers arrived, they found the bicyclist — identified as James Griffin, 70, of Melbourne — suffering from severe injuries.

Griffin was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.

Police said Griffin had been traveling westbound on Eau Gallie Boulevard in the designated bicycle lane when he was struck by a light-colored car that had turned west onto Eau Gallie from Pineapple Avenue.

Witnesses told investigators the car was driving erratically, swerving and squealing its tires before hitting the bicycle. The driver fled the scene, continuing west on Eau Gallie Boulevard without stopping.

Investigators with the department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit are reviewing security footage from the area and speaking with witnesses to locate the suspect vehicle.

Several pedestrians and drivers were reportedly nearby at the time of the crash. The investigation remains active.

Anyone who may have seen a light-colored car driving erratically in the area early Wednesday morning is urged to contact Officer Whiteside with the Traffic Enforcement Unit at 321-616-6087. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477) or online at Crimeline.org.

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