Stranded Driver Killed While Flagging Down Help

FT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) - A Homestead man stranded on U.S. 27 was killed when he attempted to flag down help.

Francisco Mendoza, 21, and a friend had been heading south on U.S. 27 when they ran out of gas just south of SW 26th Street in Weston around 3:30 a.m.

At some point Mendoza, who was trying to stop an approaching van for help, stepped out onto the road and into the path oncoming vehicle.

Mendoza was wearing dark-color clothing. The driver, who didn't see Mendoza because he was wearing dark color clothing, struck him.

Mendoza was airlifted to Broward Health Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead.

Broward Sheriff's Office traffic homicide detectives continue their investigation. They do not believe impairment or speed were factors that contributed to this incident.