Leesburg, FL (August 19, 2025) – A tragic collision late Sunday night claimed the life of a 75-year-old man after he was struck by a pickup truck while crossing Radio Rd near Patrick Dr. Authorities have arrested 37-year-old Kevin Edward Custer of Leesburg on charges of DUI manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal crash.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the fatal incident occurred at approximately 9:10 p.m. on August 18. Custer was driving a 2012 Toyota Tacoma northbound on Radio Rd when the victim, who has not been publicly identified, attempted to cross the street on foot. The area where the collision occurred is a residential stretch lacking marked crosswalks, near Graceway Church.
After striking the pedestrian, Custer fled the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly and transported the severely injured man to UF Health Leesburg. Despite medical intervention, the victim later died at the hospital.
Custer did not initially return to the scene but was escorted back by a family member, where he later spoke with law enforcement. Authorities seized the involved vehicle and took Custer into custody. He was booked into the Lake County Jail, and the crash remains under active investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of the man who lost his life in this senseless tragedy.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Florida
The heartbreaking death of a 75-year-old man on Radio Rd sheds light on the ongoing dangers pedestrians face throughout Florida—particularly in residential zones where safe crossings may be limited or nonexistent. In this case, the absence of a crosswalk and the presence of impaired driving created a deadly combination that ended in the loss of an innocent life.
Florida ranks among the highest in the nation for pedestrian fatalities, and data consistently show that older adults are among the most vulnerable. Incidents like this, which involve DUI and hit-and-run charges, point to deeper concerns not only about road design and pedestrian access but also about personal responsibility behind the wheel.
DUI manslaughter is one of the most serious traffic-related criminal charges in Florida, carrying severe legal consequences. More importantly, however, it reflects the irreversible harm caused by choosing to drive while impaired. Leaving the scene of a fatal crash compounds the tragedy, often delaying critical aid to victims and creating additional trauma for surviving family members.
Pedestrian safety in neighborhoods like the one near Graceway Church requires ongoing attention from both residents and city planners. More lighting, crosswalk installations, and driver awareness campaigns can all reduce the likelihood of another devastating loss. But ultimately, accountability from drivers is the first line of defense against these preventable crashes.
For families affected by pedestrian fatalities, the path forward can be overwhelming. In addition to grief, they may face funeral costs, emotional trauma, and complicated legal proceedings. Accessing victim advocacy services and understanding their legal rights is vital to begin the healing process.
Local Accident Reports offers support for families and individuals impacted by fatal crashes. If your loved one has been taken too soon in a pedestrian accident, we can connect you with resources and information that matter. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today—because no one should face this journey alone.
