Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
-Major Accident Investigation Team (M.A.I.T.)

Robert C. Carelli (Driver- Uninjured)
DOB: 05/23/1958
Address: 1211 Union Street, Clearwater.
Vehicle: 1984 Dodge Ram pickup

Joseph A. Gonzalez (Driver- Injured)
DOB: 08/04/1961
Address: 6936 Amarillo Street,  Port Richey.
Vehicle: 2015 Bash moped

What:
Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team are investigating a serious crash involving a vehicle versus a moped.

When:
The crash occurred at about 6:32 a.m. on January 8, 2016.

Where:
The crash occurred at the intersection of Tampa Road and Commerce Boulevard in Oldsmar.

Why/How:

According to investigators, at approximately 6:32 a.m. on January 8, 2016, Joseph Gonzalez was driving his 2015 Bash moped westbound on Tampa Road in the curb lane approaching Commerce Boulevard. Robert Carelli was driving his 1984 Dodge Ram pickup northbound on Commerce Boulevard attempting to cross Tampa Road.  

Investigators say that Carelli thought the intersection was clear and he did not see Gonzalez approaching the intersection on his moped. Carelli proceeded northbound on Commerce Boulevard attempting to cross Tampa Road when he struck Gonzalez on the left side of the moped.

Gonzalez, who was not wearing a helmet, was ejected from the moped at impact. He was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Carelli was not injured as a result of the crash.

Investigators say that inclement weather and low light conditions may have been factors in the crash.  

The investigation continues.