TPD: Driver hit, killed woman on scooter - then fled the scene

TAMPA - A Tampa man is accused of hitting and killing a woman on a scooter with his van, then fleeing the scene.

According to the Tampa Police Department, Michelle Renee Wells, 36, was driving southbound on N. Nebraska Avenue at E. 112th Avenue on a scooter Friday night.

Traveling directly behind Wells was a 2006 blue Dodge van driven by James R. Brennan, 49.

Investigators say Brennan failed to see Wells on the scooter - and clipped the back of her vehicle with the front of his van.

As a result of the collision, Wells reportedly fell off the scooter - then was hit by the van.  She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police reports indicate that Brennan drove away, but a witness told officers he parked the van nearby.

A Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office deputy responded to that location of N. Nebraska Avenue and 109th Avenue. He saw Brennan exit the van and take off on foot, but the deputy captured him shortly afterward.

Brennan has been charged with DUI manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident involving death, and driving with a suspended license.

Michelle Wells was listed as a Tampa resident, and police say they have notified her family members.