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A suspect who was involved in a fatal hit-and-run that resulted in the death of two has been granted bond by the court. Michael Platter, 33, caused a crash on October 4, Saturday while traveling down the Orange Blossom Trail in a Mercedes SUV. The fatal hit-and-run suspect granted bond
The platter was speeding at the time and crashed into a Toyota Camry. The Camry ran off the road from the impact of the collision and hit a pole. At the time, Mendez Catano, 36, and Alexander Francois, 28, were traveling in the Camry. Both died from the serious injuries sustained in the accident.
A third passenger in the Camry, a woman, was also seriously injured and is currently hospitalized. Platte remained relatively uninjured in the crash although a woman traveling with him was injured. Platter left the woman and fled the site of the accident. However, he was intercepted before he could travel far.
Charges of fleeing the scene of a fatal accident were brought up against Platter. In a recent development, the court has granted him a bond of $25,300. It is currently unclear whether Platter was sober or driving under the influence at the time of the accident. If found DUI, the troopers may bring up more charges against it.
According to the authorities, Platter has a long history of road recklessness. He has received a total of 17 traffic citations since 2015. With a long history of traffic citations and the tragedy of this latest accident, Platter stands to face serious penalties.
Florida law regards a hit-and-run accident involving injuries as a third-degree felony. But where such an accident results in the death of another person, the fleeing person is charged with the first-degree felony. This is punishable with up to $10,000 in fines and jail time of up to 30 years.
If you or loved one were a victim of a hit and run, contact us for help.
