A U.S. Navy veteran is recovering at an area hospital after being struck by a hit-and-run driver Friday morning.
According to Largo Police, the accident occurred around 7:30 a.m. near the intersection of U.S. Highway 19 and East Bay.
Stephan Bielawski, 51, was riding his motorcycle to work when a driver slammed into him from behind and fled the scene, his family said.
"I can just be there as much as a I can for him and love him and tell him he will be fine and don't worry about anything," said Kristine Bielawski.
Bielawski was thrown from his motorcycle and bounced three times before finally coming to rest.
His injuries include a compound fracture of his left ankle, a broken right leg, a shattered left arm, and severe road rash from the shoulders down.
According to his wife, he was taken to the hospital and underwent surgery for several hours to reassemble his left leg. He will be undergoing surgery this week to repair his left arm.
An arrest has not been made in the case despite witnesses following the driver and calling in his tag number.
"The owner of the car doesn't remember the man's name that took her car. She doesn't remember what he looks like," Kristine added.
Bielawski served 20 years in the U.S. Navy including seeing combat in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Bielawski's wife has a message for the driver.
"Thank you very much for hitting my husband and leaving him for dead. Thank you very much for my husband not being able to walk for a minimum of two months," Kristine said angrily.
His family is seeking donations to help pay for his medical expenses. Click here to donate.
