Clearwater Woman Arrested Twice in One Night for Hit-and-Run, DUI Crashes

Kristy A. Monaghan, 65, fled the scene after striking a pedestrian, then was later involved in a separate DUI crash.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A 65-year-old woman from South Pasadena, Florida was arrested twice within hours on February 27-28, 2026 after first fleeing the scene of a crash that seriously injured a pedestrian, and then later being involved in a separate DUI crash the same night.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of hit-and-run crashes and impaired driving, which continue to be major public safety issues in the Clearwater area. The fact that the suspect was arrested twice in one night for these related incidents raises concerns about repeat offenders and the need for stronger enforcement and penalties.

The details

According to arrest affidavits, Kristy A. Monaghan was first involved in a hit-and-run crash around 10:10 pm on February 27 at the intersection of Drew Street and North Osceola Avenue in Clearwater. Investigators say Monaghan, driving a white 2011 Toyota 4Runner, turned into oncoming traffic and struck a pedestrian, causing the victim to sustain multiple injuries including a fractured ankle. Monaghan allegedly fled the scene without providing aid or identifying herself. About 14 minutes later, Monaghan was involved in another crash at Drew Street and Old Coachman Road, where officers reported signs of impairment and arrested her for DUI. During the investigation, detectives reviewed surveillance footage and Monaghan admitted to being the driver in the earlier hit-and-run incident.

  • Around 10:10 pm on February 27, 2026, the hit-and-run crash occurred at Drew Street and North Osceola Avenue.
  • Around 10:24 pm on February 27, 2026, Monaghan was involved in the separate DUI crash at Drew Street and Old Coachman Road.
  • On February 28, 2026, Monaghan was arrested again and charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury and DUI causing serious bodily injury.

The players

Kristy A. Monaghan

A 65-year-old woman from South Pasadena, Florida who was arrested twice in one night for a hit-and-run crash that seriously injured a pedestrian and a separate DUI crash.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Monaghan's bond and whether she will be allowed out on bail as the charges against her proceed.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement and penalties to address the persistent problems of hit-and-run crashes and drunk driving in the Clearwater community, in order to improve public safety and hold repeat offenders accountable.