PALM BEACH, Fla – The driver accused of dragging a bicyclist in a hit-and-run was discovered during a golf lesson at Palm Beach Country Club.
The Palm Beach Police Department (PBPD) reported that 76-year-old Ellen Schapps Richman was detained on Tuesday. The crash happened around 9:27 a.m., near 700 Country Club Road.
According to the arrest report, Richman was driving her 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL 450 eastbound when she collided with a 62-year-old guy on a bicycle. Instead of stopping, she drove on, pulling the man and his bicycle several feet until arriving at the Palm Beach Country Club and giving over her vehicle to the valet.
PBPD investigators investigated the incident and discovered evidence linking Richman’s vehicle to the crash. The crew informed the officers that Richman had recently arrived and was taking golf lessons on the course.
Broken headlight glass and a bumper cover retention clip found on the site matched parts missing from her Mercedes. Additionally, her vehicle had undercarriage damage consistent with the crash.
Richman stated after being read her Miranda Rights that she believed she had struck “something” but not a human. A valet at the country club also said that Richman mentioned hitting anything while driving.
The victim sustained a compound fracture of his tibia and fibula, as well as numerous lacerations and abrasions. He was sent to the St. Mary’s Medical Centre in West Palm Beach for treatment.
Richman was arrested for fleeing the scene of an accident while injured. The Palm Beach Police Department has issued her a notice to appear in court.
Reference: Driver found at golf lesson after hit-and-run drags cyclist in Palm Beach
