The Key West Police Department has identified the individuals involved in the Oct. 24 collision at Duval and Angela streets after a public records request by Above the Fold.
According to the unredacted crash report (Case #25-5303), the driver was Jean Phito Thezalus, 47, of Key West, operating a 2023 Toyota RAV4.
It is unclear whether he was an Uber or Lyft driver. Previous limitations on home rule have preempted municipalities from regulating the popular ride share services, overwhelmingly operated by Haitian nationals that have settled on the Island City over the last 20 years.
KWPD responders had to enlist the services of a Monroe County Sheriff’s Deputy to interpret Thezalus’ statement, as he did not appear to speak English — at all.
Police say Thezalus was traveling eastbound on Angela Street when he failed to notice stopped traffic ahead, striking a 2021 ZHNG moped ridden by Gregory John Sapp, 54, of Melbourne, and his passenger, Eve Michelle Sapp, 54.
The impact propelled the moped forward before Thezalus’s vehicle continued over both Sapp’s passenger and a pedestrian, George William Kokorelis, 48, of Palmetto Bay.
It was listed as not a hit and run by the officers on seen.
Both Sapp and Kokorelis were trapped beneath the SUV until bystanders rushed in and lifted the vehicle off the victims, according to the report. Key West Fire Department paramedics transported both to Lower Keys Medical Center.
Sapp sustained a leg injury, while Kokorelis reported arm pain but initially refused treatment before later being taken to the hospital.
The crash occurred shortly before 7 p.m. in clear weather and dry road conditions, shortly following the popular “Local’s Parade.”
Police noted “driver inattention” as the likely cause but reported no alcohol, drugs, or citations issued at the scene and there was no evidence that LEO’s even attempted to begin a DUI investigation according to incident reports and the body cam footage.
Thezalus’s gray Toyota sustained minor front-end damage. The report lists an estimated $500 in vehicle damage.
The full report is available here, shedding new light on an incident that initially drew concern after authorities declined to identify those involved for weeks.
Ed. Note: This is an evolving story. Above the Fold has received multiple emails each day seeking updates on this story. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided. Watch this space.
