Surveillance video of a seemingly callous hit-and-run in a South Florida parking lot that broke a man’s leg has resulted in the surrender of the accused driver, the Broward Sheriff’s Office said.
Luis Alberto Ferri, 36, turned himself in Tuesday in connection with the Feb. 23 incident in the parking lot of a Publix supermarket at 950 E. Commercial Blvd. in Oakland Park, records show.
Detectives circulated the video on April 3 with the hope someone would recognize and report the man in a red shirt and cap seen entering the Publix minutes before the pedestrian was struck outside.
Security cameras also recorded what looked like a Kia Soul stopping in the parking lot to allow the pedestrian to pass in front, but the driver hit the gas before the pedestrian was clear and then drove off south on North Federal Highway.
News media reports that showed the video generated tips that helped identify Ferri who had a beard in the video but was clean-shaven when he surrendered, investigators said.
He is facing a charge of aggravated battery with bond set at $50,000, records show.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office said Ferri has a history of arrests on charges that include battery, drug possession and probation violation.
Investigators are asking anyone with additional information to contact Detective Mirelle Palushaj at 954-321-4226. Anonymous tips can be given to Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477 or online at browardcrimestoppers.org.
wkroustan@sunsentinel.com or 954-356-4303 or Twitter @WayneRoustan
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