Man Arrested For Hitting Bicyclist With Golf Cart

A local man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly hitting a bicyclist with a golf cart.

Clyde Priest, 77, of 7902 Istokpoga St., was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (motor vehicle), according to the Highlands County Sheriff's Office.

The victim told authorities he was riding his bike on Davis Road when he saw Priest driving his golf cart eastbound. He got off on the left shoulder to allow the suspect to pass. Priest then yelled an unknown statement and left the road, striking both the victim and his bike, according to the arrest report.

The altercation caused a minor laceration to the victim's right leg, while damaging the bike to the point it could no longer be ridden.

During the investigation, tire marks consistent with a golf cart were seen leaving the road and going into the grass on the north shoulder of Davis Drive, the report stated.

Authorities found Priest at his residence, who advised he had not been on his golf cart that afternoon. As officers looked at the vehicle, several marks were on the front left fender, as well as fresh scrap marks on the front left tire where the dirt was removed. This was consistent with the inside of the tire rubbing on a foreign object.

The golf cart's motor was also moderately warm compared to other parts of the vehicle, according to the report.

Priest was arrested and transported to the Highlands County Jail without incident.

Kenneth D. Cooper was the arresting officer.