Pedestrian Accident Seriously Injures Citrus County Deputy

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on May 25, 2023

A Citrus County community is rallying around one of their own this week after a sheriff’s deputy was struck by a vehicle Wednesday evening while controlling traffic for a local high school graduation near South Lecanto Highway.

According to auto accident reports from the Florida Highway Patrol, on May 24, 2023, a group of deputies from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office, including 50-year-old Deputy Andy Lahera, were directing traffic at the intersection of South Lecanto Highway and Saunders Way after the conclusion of Lecanto High School’s annual graduation ceremony.

At approximately 9:05 p.m., a 19-year-old female was driving a 2013 Nissan Altima in the southbound direction of South Lecanto Highway approached the area where the officers were working and slammed into Deputy Lahera, who was using a flashlight and wearing reflective safety gear when the collision occurred.

The beloved deputy’s fellow officers rushed over to the scene of the car vs. pedestrian accident and rendered aid until Citrus County emergency medical teams arrived and took over. The 14-year veteran of the force was then medevaced to a nearby trauma center with severe injuries, including several broken bones, internal injuries, bruising, and lacerations. At the time of this writing, Deputy Lahera was reported to be unconscious, but in stable condition.

“We are praying for Deputy Lahera’s recovery and are praying for him and his family. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts as he moves forward on a very lengthy road to recovery. CCSO appreciates your support during this difficult time,” said the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office in a statement to the media.

In addition to his daily duties as a deputy, Mr. Lahera has also been a dedicated school resource officer at Lecanto High School for the past five years. Nearly 4,000 students, parents, and faculty members were in attendance for the festivities Wednesday night.

This case is currently under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol. No information has been released regarding the 19-year-old driver and whether or not they will face charges.

Since 1977, Florida personal injury attorney James O. Cunningham has been compassionately fighting for the rights of auto accident victims. To schedule a free 30-minute case evaluation, please contact our office today at 877-FL-INJURY.

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.