Orange County, FL – A 41-year-old Orlando man was arrested Tuesday after allegedly striking a bicyclist with a box truck and attempting to flee the scene, authorities said. The incident has left the bicyclist in critical condition, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and Orange County law enforcement.
How the Crash Happened
Troopers were dispatched around 8 p.m. to respond to two locations: the primary crash site near U.S. 441 (Orange Blossom Trail) and Woodsmere Avenue, and mile marker 90A on eastbound Interstate 4, where deputies later stopped the box truck driver, according to the arrest affidavit.
Witnesses reported that the truck, identified as a Ryder box truck, exited either a parking lot or side street and struck the bicyclist in what appeared to be a sudden, unexpected collision. The affidavit states the truck then slowed briefly before continuing to move forward, dragging the bicycle and rider under the vehicle into the center of northbound Orange Blossom Trail.
“The box truck hit the bicyclist and continued moving, causing the rider to be dragged underneath into the road,” troopers said, citing eyewitness accounts.
At least one witness immediately rendered aid to the injured bicyclist, while another followed the truck, providing critical information to deputies before the driver was apprehended.
Arrest and Charges
The driver, Jose Agustin Batista Grullon of Orlando, was taken into custody by FHP after being located by Orange County deputies on Interstate 4. He faces charges of failing to remain at the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury, a serious felony under Florida law.
Authorities are also investigating whether additional charges could be warranted depending on the bicyclist’s condition and any contributing factors to the collision.
“Investigators are looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including potential negligence or reckless behavior,” a spokesperson for FHP said.
Victim Condition and Emergency Response
The bicyclist was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center in critical and unstable condition. Emergency responders noted that timely assistance from bystanders was essential in stabilizing the victim until professional medical care could be provided.
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions on northbound Orange Blossom Trail, as authorities worked to secure the scene, clear debris, and document evidence for the ongoing investigation.
Witness Accounts and Community Concerns
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, noting the dramatic effort to help the injured rider and track the fleeing vehicle. Community members have expressed concern about road safety on busy arterial routes like Orange Blossom Trail, which sees heavy traffic during evening commute hours.
“It was terrifying to see someone get hit and dragged,” one witness said. “Thankfully, people stepped in to help, but drivers really need to be more careful in these areas.”
Authorities continue to urge anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward. Witness testimony can be critical in reconstructing the crash and determining liability.
Traffic and Safety Measures
In response to the collision, portions of Orange Blossom Trail were temporarily closed, and traffic was rerouted while investigators processed the scene. Troopers emphasized the importance of vigilance for both drivers and bicyclists, especially in areas with mixed vehicle and bicycle traffic.
Jose Agustin Batista Grullon now faces felony charges while the bicyclist remains hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities continue their investigation to determine all factors that contributed to the crash.
The Florida Highway Patrol encourages anyone with additional information or dashcam footage to contact their Newberry office. Share your experiences in the comments below to help raise awareness about the dangers of hit-and-run crashes and the importance of road safety for both drivers and cyclists.
