Runner struck by truck recovering at hospital
A man was improving Wednesday at the hospital after being hit by a truck while running.
James P. Rosso, 20, of 2818 N.W. 10th Terrace, was listed in fair condition at Lee Memorial Hospital, where he was taken April 9 following the accident on Diplomat Parkway West, officials reported.
At 8:11 p.m., Rosso was running on Diplomat in the outside lane with two others. The three were running shoulder to shoulder, with Rosso positioned near the middle of the lane, according to police. In the 2600 block, a Dodge Ram truck headed eastbound in the outside lane approached from behind.
The driver of the truck, Ronald Bulat, 64, of 1126 N.W. 15th St., saw Rosso running in the road and attempted to swerve to the left. However, he was unable to avoid Rosso and the right front end of the truck struck him. Police said Rosso was thrown onto the hood, then ejected off the passenger’s side.
Rosso landed in the yard of a home at 2610 Diplomat Parkway W. and slid across the driveway.
Bulat immediately pulled off into the median and came to a final stop, according to police.
Rosso reportedly sustained incapacitating injuries and was airlifted to the hospital.
Bulat was not injured in the crash.
Police reported that the accident was not alcohol or drug related.
Rosso was reportedly not wearing any reflective clothing or safety gear while running.