Pasco ATV accident that injured 4 teens investigated as hit-and-run crash

HUDSON, Fla. - An accident that injured four Pasco County teens on an ATV Saturday is now being investigated as a hit and run, a Florida Highway Patrol spokesman said.

The teens were rushed to the hospital early Saturday morning when the ATV they were riding on was hit by a 1992 Ford Ranger, Lt. Larry Kraus said.

Florida Highway Patrol says the accident happened just before 2:00 a.m. at Hicks Road and Denton Avenue in Hudson.

Troopers say the four children, who were all 16 or younger, were on a Honda Sports Trac ATV that was traveling southbound on Hicks Road when they pulled out in front of a truck that was traveling westbound on Denton Avenue.

All four riders were ejected from the ATV. Three were transported to Tampa General Hospital and one was transported to another trauma center.

The driver of the ATV was identified as 15-year-old Mark Cullpepper, and is listed in serious condition, according to FHP.

12-year-old Jessica Alonso, 16-year-old Brandon Knowles and 13-year-old Cierra Delorey were the passengers, FHP said. Knowles remains in critical condition while the other two are listed as stable.

Investigators are now trying to locate the driver of the 1992 Ford Ranger.