Photo: (WPEC)
New details in a deadly multi-vehicle crash reveal that the driver of a Jeep Wrangler allegedly attempted to flee after colliding with a Chevy truck before triggering a chain-reaction crash that killed a 67-year-old man Tuesday.
The crash, involving seven vehicles, sheared off the rear half of the Mazda at the intersection of East Ocean Avenue and North Dixie Highway in Lantana.
According to a crash report from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, at about 11:12 a.m., the driver of the Jeep Wrangler continued south on Ocean Avenue at a high rate of speed after the initial collision, despite traffic being stopped at a red light.
The report states that the Jeep driver failed to stop for a 2023 Mazda, rear-ending the vehicle. The Mazda was pushed forward and crashed into a 2016 Toyota 4Runner that was stopped in a left-turn lane.
The Jeep continued south and struck the rear of a 2006 Honda Civic. The Civic was pushed into a 2024 Ford F-350 before clipping a 2022 Freightliner.
The Jeep then rotated counterclockwise and crashed into the left side of a 2018 Toyota before coming to a final rest. Debris from the collision also struck a 2026 Toyota Prius.
According to the crash report, alcohol or drugs are suspected factors in the fatal crash, which remains under investigation.
Fire Rescue personnel said two vehicles sustained extensive damage, and three people required about 10 minutes of heavy extrication to be removed from the wreckage.
Two victims were flown by Trauma Hawk helicopter to St. Mary’s Medical Center, according to a Lantana police officer. One of the drivers involved in the crash later died from their injuries. Authorities have not released the victim’s name.
The victim was identified as J 67, of Boca Raton, who was driving the 2023 Mazda involved in the crash.
Two women who work nearby at SOFLO Behavioral Health said they heard sirens from police cars and ambulances responding to the crash.
“I was sitting at the front desk, and I heard a whole bunch of police cars. I saw them rushing through the plaza,” SOFLO Behavioral Health employee Gionna Baptiste said.
Her co-worker, L, said she initially did not think much of the police activity but soon realized the situation was serious.
“For a while, I kept hearing more and more sirens, and I got up and asked Gionna at the front desk, ‘What is going on?'” L said. “I just wish the best for the person’s family. That must be heartbreaking to hear.”
Dixie Highway was shut down in both directions for about seven hours, with southbound traffic diverted at Lantana Road and northbound traffic diverted at West Pine Street. The road reopened around 6 p.m.
A police officer said none of the traffic cameras at the intersection are monitored in real time, and investigators are continuing to work to determine what led up to the crash.
Photos from the scene show a heavy first responder presence, with at least a dozen firefighters surrounding the vehicles and assessing the victims.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable After a Car Crash
When a car accident is caused by negligence, victims deserve justice. Ovadia Law Group is dedicated to holding responsible drivers accountable and helping you recover from your injuries. Our personal injury attorneys are skilled in car accident cases and understand how to build strong claims. We work with investigators and experts to uncover the facts and prove liability. Whether the crash occurred due to distracted driving, speeding, or other factors, we’re here to fight for your rights. Our firm offers compassionate support and aggressive representation to ensure you receive fair compensation. Call 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation and speak with a personal injury lawyer who understands car accident law.
Source: Cbs12
