The Ocala community is mourning the loss of Julius Tanksley, 29, following a fatal pedestrian crash on County Road 200A in Marion County, Florida.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 8:05 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, near NE 110th Street. A silver Ford Explorer was traveling northbound when it moved off the roadway to the right and struck the pedestrian, who was walking along the east shoulder.
The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver initially left the area without stopping, according to authorities.
Approximately one hour later, the driver returned to the crash scene in the damaged Ford Explorer and admitted to law enforcement that he had been driving the vehicle and had left after the collision.
Authorities identified the driver as 29-year-old Matthew Boardman of Marion County. He was arrested and charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving death.
For those mourning Julius, his death marks a sudden and painful loss. A routine morning on County Road 200A ended in tragedy, leaving loved ones to cope with a life that was unexpectedly cut short.
The investigation and legal proceedings remain ongoing as authorities continue to document the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Julius Tanksley will be remembered by those who knew and loved him as his family and community come to terms with his passing.
