Florida Teacher Charged in Hit-and-Run of Student, Leaving Teen with Broken Back

WINTER PARK, Fla. — A Winter Park High School teacher, Benjamin Fottler, has been arrested and charged with felony hit-and-run following an incident on December 11, 2025, in which he allegedly struck a 16-year-aged student, Landon Cates, with his car and left the scene. Cates sustained serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra.

Details of the Incident

According to investigators with the Casselberry Police Department, the incident occurred near the intersection of Casselton Drive and State Road 436 while Cates was riding his scooter to school. Fottler, 49, allegedly contacted police after the crash, claiming he believed he had hit a traffic sign in the median . However, a bystander reported seeing Fottler speed away from the scene.

Injuries and Aftermath

Landon Cates, who was 15 at the time of the incident, suffered scratches, bruises, and a fractured vertebra in his back . He initially believed his injuries were minor due to adrenaline, but later realized the severity of the fracture. His mother, Callista Cates, stated that he continues to deal with the injuries and may require surgery . The family moved due to the emotional distress caused by living near the crash site and Fottler.

Arrest and Bond

More than three months after the incident, on March 10, 2026, Fottler was arrested and booked on a felony hit-and-run charge . He was released after posting a $20,000 bond .

Employment Status and Community Reaction

Despite the charges, Orange County Public Schools initially confirmed that Fottler remained employed, as the crash did not occur while he was on school grounds . This decision sparked concern among parents, with some calling for his termination. One parent expressed alarm, noting their child is an athlete at the school and uses the same roads.

This case highlights the issue of hit-and-run incidents and raises questions about accountability for educators.