Man dies in Seffner hit-and-run

SEFFNER -- The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for the driver of a car involved in a hit-and-run accident this morning that resulted in the death of 28-year-old Charles T. Pearson, of Seffner.

This is what happened, according to an FHP report:

Just after 2 a.m. this morning, a 1995 Volkswagen four-door vehicle was traveling eastbound on U.S. 92 when it hit the rear of Pearson's 1988 Chevy station wagon.

The impact caused Pearson to lose control of his vehicle, and it veered to the right shoulder, overturned and came to rest on its side. Pearson and his passenger, Lisa M. Vaught, 21, of Brandon, were ejected and sustained severe injuries. Neither were wearing seat belts.

The driver of the Volkswagen continued traveling eastbound on U.S. 92 for about 1,000 feet before it stopped on the outside shoulder. The unidentified driver fled the scene, leaving his or her vehicle.

Pearson and Vaught were taken to Tampa General Hospital in critical condition. Pearson died at 11 a.m. this morning.

The driver of the Volkswagen has still not been identified, and charges are pending, the Highway Patrol said. They're asking anyone with information to call Sgt. Steve Gaskins at (813) 215-1867.

-- Jessica Vander Velde, Times staff writer