Local

Driver sought in hit-and-run that left motorcyclist in ICU

CASSELBERRY, Fla. — A 24-year-old motorcyclist was on his way home from Orlando to Winter Springs when he was hit by a driver Friday night, who then fled the scene.

Joseph Kelley was hospitalized after the crash that happened on State Road 436 in Casselberry, just north of the Orange County line.

Kelley's father said it is a bike that his son, who they refer to as Boomer, loves, and loves to ride.

"His grandparents also rode. All of us, his older brother, his mother, myself, we all ride bikes," said Wayne Kelley. 
   
Joseph Kelley's younger brother broke the news to their father.

"He told me that, 'Hey dad, Boomer's been in an accident. He's at ORMC,'" said Wayne Kelley.

Detectives said eyewitnesses reported seeing a black SUV, but police said they have no other leads.

The Kelley family said they are desperate for help, as Joseph Kelley fights for his life in the hospital's ICU.

"He's just a great kid," said Wayne Kelley. "Works hard, works two jobs, trying pay off his student loans."
   
Investigators said Joseph Kelley was not wearing his helmet that night.

His family said they know he might not be in the condition he is had he had a helmet on.

They said they want the person who is responsible caught. They are hoping that someone saw something that night and can help.

"On 436 on a Friday evening? I'm sure there's somebody somewhere that saw something.," said Wayne Kelley.