Suwannee County, FL (December 11, 2024) – A tragic crash Tuesday evening claimed the life of a 21-year-old man and left six others injured at the intersection of State Road 247 and County Road 49 in Suwannee County. The incident occurred at approximately 6:14 PM when the van, which was carrying seven individuals from Mayo, Florida, collided with an SUV.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the van, occupied by the driver and six passengers, was traveling when it crashed into a 67-year-old woman driving the SUV. The 21-year-old man, who was a passenger in the van, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and the remaining passengers in the van all sustained serious injuries, and none of them were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, according to the FHP news release.
The driver of the SUV, a woman from Branford, Florida, was also injured but suffered only minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Vehicle Crashes in Florida
The incident underscores the importance of wearing seatbelts, as none of the occupants in the van were properly restrained. Seatbelt use is critical in preventing severe injuries and fatalities during collisions, and this tragic crash highlights the ongoing risks on Florida’s roadways, especially at busy intersections.
Local authorities are continuing to investigate the crash, and the Florida Highway Patrol has not yet released additional details regarding the cause of the crash.
Local Accident Reports extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and urges all drivers and passengers to prioritize safety by always wearing seatbelts. If you or someone you know has been affected by this incident, please contact local authorities for the latest updates and support.