Pedestrian Struck by Car, Hospitalized, LIVINGSTON, April 26, 2017 - At approximately 4 pm on April 26, 2017, a gold 2001 Hyundai Elantra, driven by Jesus Mendiola, 42, of Sebring, Florida, was south-bound on the US-59 Feeder in the 925 block (next to Pedigo Park). Mendiola's vehicle struck a pedestrian, Thomas Howard Smith, 46, of Livingston. The impact knocked Smith into the grass on the right side of the road. Smith appeared to have been crossing toward the north side. Allegiance Ambulance Service was dispatched to the scene along with Officers from the Livingston Police Department, including Jason Thomas, Brandon Brewer, Nita Bowen, Detective Marty Drake, Lieutenant Matt Parrish and Chief Dennis Clifton. Additionally, Sergeant Jason Paske with the Polk County Sheriff's Office showed up to assist. Smith was transported by ambulance to CHI Livingston Memorial Hospital with undisclosed injuries. Mendiola was physically okay. This accident remains under investigation by the Livingston Police Department. Mendiola's vehicle was driven from the scene.
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42 year old Jesus Mendiola, of Sebring, Florida, was driving this 2001 Hyundai Elantra and struck 46 year old Thomas Smith, of Livingston.
A large spider web cave in on Mendiola's windshield is visible where Smith impacted.
Mendiola (left) was checked for intoxication and showed not to be under any influence (also pictured is Officer Branden Brewer with Livingston PD).
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