Tampa Republic

On December 18th, 2023, a fatal hit and run crash occurred in Tampa, Florida, leaving a USPS mail carrier dead. However, the Tampa Police have made a swift arrest in connection with the incident. Christopher Prater, a 56-year-old individual, has been apprehended and is now facing charges related to the tragic event.

Chief Lee Bercaw expressed his hope that Prater's arrest would bring a small sense of closure to the Falica family, as well as the extended family from the US Postal Service. Chief Bercaw also commended the exceptional police work, diligent forensics investigation, and a tip from a concerned community member that led to Prater's arrest. This case serves as another testament to the commitment of Tampa in ensuring the safety of its residents.

The incident took place at the intersection of River Cove St and Mulberry St. Witnesses reported seeing a Mercedes sedan fleeing the scene after colliding with an overturned USPS mail delivery truck. Evidence gathered at the scene indicated that the USPS truck was traveling east on River Cove St. when the collision occurred. Investigators discovered a bumper insert commonly used in certain models of Mercedes Benz sedans, further linking the hit and run to the Mercedes sedan.

An anonymous tip submitted through TIP411 implicated Christopher Prater as being involved in the crash. Following up on this lead, detectives located the suspect vehicle parked in the driveway of 8412 N. 16th St. Prater, the resident of the residence, claimed that his roommate had been driving the vehicle but was no longer present. The vehicle's owner confirmed that he had parked it at the location a few days prior and had not authorized anyone to drive it. Fingerprints found inside the vehicle matched those of Christopher Prater, and a debit card with his name was also discovered.

Further evidence contradicted Prater's statement. Video surveillance footage captured Prater entering and exiting the suspect vehicle before and after it returned with front-end damage consistent with the crash. Witnesses also identified Prater as the individual seen wearing clothing that matched what he had on in the footage taken on the same day as the incident.

Based on the gathered evidence, Christopher Prater has been arrested and charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash with Death, as well as Driving While License Canceled, Suspended, Revoked (Death or Serious Bodily Injury). He has been transported to Falkenburg Road Jail.

The Tampa Police Department has shown its dedication to ensuring justice for the victims of this hit and run incident. The arrest of Christopher Prater brings some closure to the Falica family and the US Postal Service community. The Tampa Police Department continues to work diligently to keep the city safe and secure for its residents.

For more information, contact the Tampa Police Department at 306 East Jackson Street, Tampa, Florida, 33602, or call (813) 274-8211.

Connect with the Tampa Police Department on social media using #TampaProud.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2023-12/tampa-police-make-arrest-fatal-hit-run-133461