PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — A 15-year-old Hudson Academy student was struck and killed by a vehicle while riding his bike Thursday morning.


What You Need To Know

  • A teen bicyclist was hit and killed by a vehicle near Thompson Avenue and Kitten Trail in Hudson

  • The teen, 15-year-old Myles Farago, was a student at Hudson Academy

  • FHP said a Hudson man, 31, was driving a Dodge Charger eastbound and did not see the teen, who was not wearing a helmet, due to dark conditions

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash happened just after 6:30 a.m. near Thompson Avenue and Kitten Trail in Hudson — less than a mile away from the school on a two-lane road.

The bicyclist has been identified as Myles Farago. In a Facebook post, Hudson Academy officials described him as "kind, caring and a talented student."

Troopers said a Hudson man, 31, was driving a Dodge Charger eastbound on Kitten Trail when he struck the rear of the bicycle. Authorities said the conditions were dark and the driver did not see the teen, who was not wearing a helmet. 

People who live in the surrounding area say that road is dangerous and there needs to be more lights. 

“It needs something to be done," Hudson resident Janet Michaels said. "There’s a lot of traffic in the mornings, at like seven o’clock or so, and then in the afternoon when school gets out. I’m surprised we don’t have more accidents, really.”

Kelli Childress, another resident and parent, said she immediately knew something bad happened as she drove past the flood of police lights on Kitten Trail.

"My first thought was it was a kid going to school," she said. "And then it ended up being that. It’s devastating. No mom should have to feel that. Not with a little boy just trying to go to school."

Officials said Farago was taken to an area hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries. 

The road where the crash happened leads to three nearby schools. Neighbors and school parents, including Childress, have been speaking out about Kitten Trail, which has no sidewalks or crosswalks.

"What happened this morning could be avoided 100 percent. It’s dangerous, it’s dark, (drivers) not paying attention," Childress said. "There’s nothing on Kitten Road, except for one faded sign that says ‘school entrance.’ People don’t pay attention to signs anymore. There’s no lights, there’s nothing. It’s dark."

Childress has been advocating for improved safety measures for years. She says she's frustrated and heartbroken that a tragedy like this happened, but hopes it may lead to change.

Hudson Academy said they had a crisis team on their campus today to offer support to students and staff and will keep bringing in counselors for as long as needed.