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Largo Today
By the People, for the People
Clearwater Woman Arrested for DUI and Hit-and-Run in Largo
61-year-old Karen Lynn Bates fled the scene of a crash that left another driver injured, police say.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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A 61-year-old Clearwater woman was arrested on February 26 after Largo police said she fled the scene of a crash that left another driver injured and was later found to be impaired. Karen Lynn Bates was charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving injury, DUI involving property damage, and driving without a valid license.
Why it matters
Hit-and-run crashes and driving under the influence are serious public safety issues in the Tampa Bay area. This incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement and consequences for such reckless behavior on local roads.
The details
According to the Largo Police Department, Bates was driving a gray Nissan Altima when she was involved in a two-vehicle rollover crash at the intersection of Keene Road and Oak Park Drive. Bates allegedly left the scene without providing her information or rendering aid to the other injured driver. Police later located Bates and her damaged vehicle at her workplace, a Dollar Tree store in Clearwater. Officers documented signs of impairment, including slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and a failed sobriety test, and Bates provided breath samples with blood alcohol levels of 0.32 and 0.33.
- The crash occurred around 4:53 p.m. on February 26, 2026.
- Bates was arrested around 6:02 p.m. on February 26, 2026.
The players
Karen Lynn Bates
A 61-year-old Clearwater resident who was arrested for leaving the scene of a crash and DUI.
Largo Police Department
The law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and made the arrest.
What’s next
Bates is scheduled to appear in court on March 10, 2026 for a hearing on the charges.
The takeaway
This case underscores the need for stronger deterrents and consequences for impaired and reckless driving behaviors that endanger innocent lives on local roads. Authorities must continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute such offenders to improve public safety.
