Deerfield Beach hit-and-run victim clinging to life, search for driver continues

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. — Authorities in Broward County are searching for a driver who police said hit a man in Deerfield Beach and then kept going.

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That man, who family members have identified as Barry Charles, remains in the hospital, and his condition is not good.

Doctors gave his family a grim update over the weekend while investigators continue to try to figure out who is responsible.

Charles’ niece, Shell Stanley, told Local 10 News that her uncle is a big part of her life.

“He’s almost like my dad,” she said. “He’s been there for me. It’s just us. He’s a very funny person. He’ll give everybody nicknames. He probably would give you a nickname if you met him.”

The crash happened Friday around 8:30 p.m. near Southwest First Terrace and Third Court. Deputies said the driver of a black pickup truck hit Charles and did not stop.

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First responders rushed the 55-year-old to Broward Health North with life-threatening injuries.

Stanley said it is not likely that Charles survives.

“They’re calling me like every other hour or every two or three hours and you know giving me the status,” she said. “And it’s nerve wrecking because I don’t want the call that says he’s dead.”

Family members have set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for Charles’ mounting medical expenses.

They are hopeful that the person responsible will turn themselves in.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.

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