23-143 Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) Investigates Fatal Hit and Run Crash in Treasure Island
MAIT Investigation
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
-Major Accident Investigation Team
Mark McKeown (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 03/01/1962
Address: 3575 Chevron Drive - Highland, Michigan
Vehicle: 2019 Black Dodge Ram
Thomas McKeown (Pedestrian – Deceased)
DOB: 11/17/1936
PINELLAS COUNTY - On November 11, 2023, at approximately 8:36 p.m., deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) responded to R Bar located at 245 108th Avenue in Treasure Island to investigate a fatal hit and run vehicle versus pedestrian crash.
According to investigators, 86-year-old Thomas McKeown was struck and dragged by a black pickup truck in the parking lot of 245 108th Avenue. The black pickup truck fled the scene prior to the deputy’s arrival. Through various investigative techniques, investigators learned that a 2019 black Dodge Ram backed into a parking space in the parking lot. McKeown walked towards the truck and appeared to fall to the ground in front of the truck. Investigators say the truck then starts to move and runs over McKeown, dragging him in the parking lot. The truck then reverses and moves forward multiple times, running over him each time before leaving the scene.
Throughout the course of the investigation, investigators learned Thomas McKeown’s son, 61-year-old Mark McKeown, was operating the pickup truck that struck Thomas. Mark was taken into custody and charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death.
Thomas McKeown was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. Next of kin has been notified.
Impairment appears to be a factor in the crash.
The investigation continues.
