Search for driver who hit teen

The Florida Highway Patrol is searching for the driver who hit a young teen who was riding his bike and left the scene. 

“Thirteen years old, fighting as hard as he can fight. I have to stand there and watch him for endless hours be in pain and hurt and agony. It’s not fair,” said Tami Loechner, the victim’s mom.

Investigators say Saturday at around 7 p.m., Cody Loechner was hit by a car while trying to cross Alafaya Trail, near Science Drive. 

“From the way it’s been explained to me, my son was hit from the front passenger side of the vehicle, rolled up over the top and slammed down onto the concrete,” Loechner said. 

Troopers say the driver who hit Cody slowed down at first, but then took off.  Now, they’re looking for a white passenger car with damage on the front end. 

Cody was rushed to Arnold Palmer Hospital in critical condition. His parents say he’s suffering from brain trauma, multiple broken bones and a ruptured spleen. He remains in the Intensive Care Unit.

In the meantime, the driver who hit him and didn’t stop is still out there. Cody’s parents have a message for that person. 

“If the photos weren’t so graphic that I have, I would show them and make that driver have to look at the photos every day of their life,” Loechner said. 

“Turn yourself in,” said Cody’s dad, Edwin Loechner.

“Do the right thing,” Tami said.