Parents of 18-year-old killed in 2025 Collier County hit-and-run seek answers

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

More than a year after 18-year-old Kade Schembri was fatally struck by a car on Radio Road in Collier County, his parents are seeking answers and urging anyone with information to come forward.

Claudia Clarke, Kade's mother, expressed, "It might have been a year ago for them, but it's every day for us."

Kade's father, Julian Schembri, recalled his son saying, "[He] just reminds me of myself when I was his age."

Claudia added, "One thing with me is, is that his hugs, believe it or not, I know a lot of people say that."

Deputies say Kade was killed in a hit-and-run crash in front of the Circle K on Radio Road and San Marcos Boulevard last February. The driver fled the scene, and Kade died following his injuries. Detectives and his parents are urging public assistance.

Claudia Clarke said, "There are still many unanswered questions. Anything that you may have, maybe the police haven't got that yet or don't know about that yet. Please give any information, even if you think it's irrelevant."

Deputies have taken to social media to spread awareness, as they still do not know who was driving or what kind of car hit Kade.

Trish Routte from Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers said, "I think if you know that you were in the area and you saw something and you've just been sitting on that for a year, we're hopeful that you will come forward. There is no case that is unsolvable. Every single case has the ability to be solved."

A $5,000 reward is offered for tips leading to an arrest, but for Claudia and Julian, the chance for closure is priceless.

Julian Schembri said, "You don't knock over a child and leave them and not say something. It has to be weighing on someone. Really, what I'm asking as a parent, please come forward to the police and Crime Stoppers and give the police information they need."

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Collier County deputies or Crime Stoppers.

If you have information in this case, you are asked to contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477), on the P3 app, or on its website. You can remain anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward.

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