Tampa police have apprehended Christopher Eric Prater, 56, following a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of U.S. Postal Service carrier Paul Falica, 69. Prater, who allegedly borrowed a car without permission, struck Falica's mail truck in Sulphur Springs on Monday, according to authorities.

The fatal crash occurred around 3 p.m. at the intersection of North River Cove Street and North Mulberry Street. Witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored Mercedes sedan flee the scene after colliding with the postal service truck, causing it to overturn.

Acting on an anonymous tip, investigators located the damaged Mercedes at Prater's residence on the 8400 block of N 16th Street, approximately half a mile from the crash site. Prater, who was found inside the house, initially claimed that his roommate had been driving the car and was no longer present.

Further scrutiny of the vehicle revealed Prater's fingerprints and a debit card with his name on it. The car's front bumper damage was consistent with the impact from the hit-and-run collision. Additionally, a piece of a bumper insert resembling those found on certain Mercedes Benz models was recovered at the crash scene.

Video surveillance near the site captured footage of Prater entering and later returning the car with front bumper damage, matching descriptions provided by witnesses. Based on this evidence, Prater was arrested on Tuesday.

Prater appeared in court on Wednesday before Circuit Judge Jeffrey Rich, who ordered him to remain in jail without bond until at least Friday. The Hillsborough State Attorney's Office had requested his continued detention until the resolution of his case. Prater's prior arrest history, which dates back to 2001 and includes charges of grand theft, aggravated assault, resisting law enforcement, DUI, and driving without a valid license, were taken into consideration.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw expressed hopes that the swift arrest would offer some closure to the Falica family and the U.S. Postal Service community affected by this tragic incident. Paul Falica, a respected and dedicated employee who had served the Postal Service for over 30 years, was described by coworkers as a "happy-go-lucky" individual who enjoyed his job.

The investigation into the hit-and-run crash continues as authorities work to gather additional evidence and statements related to the incident.