Troopers search for driver in fatal hit-and-run

KENNETH CITY — A female pedestrian was killed after she was hit by two vehicles in the 4700 block of 66th Street N Tuesday night, Florida Highway Patrol troopers reported.

Investigators said the first vehicle that hit the woman stopped, but a second vehicle -- which hit her and dragged her about 50 feet -- left the scene. A witness described the second car as a four-door, white Honda Civic -- perhaps a 1993 or 1994 model.

The accident occurred about 7:45 p.m. as the pedestrian, Kryss Leitson, 45, of St. Petersburg, crossed the road in an area that does not have a crosswalk or intersection. She was taken to St. Petersburg General Hospital, where she died.

No charges had been filed against the driver of the first vehicle, Helen Cortez Ewin, 57, of Kenneth City, who troopers said was unable to avoid hitting the woman. Troopers said the second car stopped briefly, then left. Anyone with information about the crash or the hit-and-run vehicle can call the FHP Cpl. Doug Guy at (813) 631-4020.