GPD makes arrest in fatal hit-and-run

Press release from Gainesville Police Department

On Saturday, March 27, 2021, at approximately 12:47 a.m., an Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Deputy located a hit and run crash at the 5700 block of SW 20th Avenue. Gainesville Police Department (GPD) officers responded shortly thereafter.

Investigation revealed that a vehicle traveling eastbound struck a motorized bicyclist who was crossing the roadway. After hitting the bicyclist with his vehicle, the motorist did not stop, fleeing eastbound. The bicyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene.

GPD officer, Cpl Aaron Stemen, then located a part number of one of the pieces of the vehicle that came off during the accident. It was determined that the part belonged to a dark blue Lexus sedan. A subsequent ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) search found one vehicle that matched the description and was near the crash site approximately 20 minutes prior.

After identifying the owner and address of the vehicle, GPD officers identified the vehicle used in the incident with damage consistent to the crash and missing the same parts left at the scene of the crash. GPD officers then arrested and charged Adam Mitchell Pearce (DOB: 08/17/1982) for Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death. Pearce admitted driving the vehicle in the area and that he struck a bicycle.

This incident remains an on-going investigation.