Police say a Florida woman was caught for hit-and-run after she hit a motorcyclist in West Melbourne, Florida.
A 34-year-old biker was hit so hard by 23-year-old Rebekah Mackenzie Tate early Sunday morning that his helmet flew off and he was left in the middle of the road.
Jail records show that Tate was charged with leaving a crash causing great bodily harm and tampering with evidence in a criminal process. On her Instagram, Tate says she is a professional ballroom dancer, harpist, and pianist.
A news release from the West Melbourne Police Department said, “Tate can be seen driving away with the motorcycle still attached to the front of her vehicle.” She did not stay at the scene or call 911.
Police say she then pulled her car into a parking lot and was picked up by someone in another car. Surveillance video showed her trying to get the motorcycle out from under her car.
Wednesday, she was taken to the Brevard County Jail on a $17,500 bond. By Friday, she was freed on bail while she waited her hearing.
The New York Post says Tate pleaded not guilty on Thursday.
A woman who said she was the victim’s mother left a message on the arrest on the police department’s Facebook page.
“I couldn’t care less what her circumstances were,” she said. “She drove off and left my son to die in the road.” She tried to hide and was caught on video changing proof. My son was on a respirator in the ICU.
She also said that her son might not be able to “walk normally again” for six months to a year. IF he ever does. I feel NOTHING bad for this woman, and I can’t wait for her to pay for what she did to my son.
The DoorDash driver Billy LeBlanc saw the person hurt in the accident and found them lying in the road. He told FOX 35 that he helped them until the ambulance arrived.
LeBlanc told the station, “I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, but I’m glad I was there because I could help him.” “I’m glad they caught her.”
He told WKMG-TV, “I hope everyone would do that if they saw something like that.” I believe most people would. It’s really sad that someone would leave them there like that. Stay still and don’t help them.”
Though Tate was “obviously scared” when she hit the person, he said she should have called 911 at least.
“I’m glad I was there at the right time, and I was able to help him,” he said. “I’m glad he’s still alive.” I’m glad he’s okay; he must be a big guy because she hit him hard.
He told WKMG that he told the victim over and over, “Be strong.” “Hang in there,” I told him. The ambulance is on its way. “Man, just be strong.” He is battling.”
Friends told FOX 35 that the victim was John Powell.
Powell’s friend Leah Lindstrand couldn’t believe it.
“She let him die.” “How could you?” she asked FOX 35. “Both of his legs don’t work really.” His left leg has a big break, and his right leg has another one. I know he has broken ribs. Seeing him that way broke my heart, but he’s getting better, which is good.
FOX 35 said Powell was no longer in the ICU by Thursday.
Tate is due back in court on October 1.