DUNEDIN, Fla. — A 15-year-old cyclist suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash with a car on Wednesday morning, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office (PCSO).
The incident occurred shortly before 7:30 a.m. at the intersection of New York Avenue and Main Street. Viktor Rakaj was riding his bicycle northbound on New York Avenue when he failed to stop at a stop sign and was struck by a 2024 Hyundai Elantra traveling eastbound on Main Street, driven by 16-year-old Michael Rodriguez.
Rakaj, who was not wearing a helmet, was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Rodriguez sustained no injuries and is cooperating with the investigation, authorities said. Both teens are students at Dunedin High School.
Investigators reported that impairment and speed do not appear to be factors in the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.