LaBelle, FL (February 18, 2025) – A pedestrian was fatally struck on Monday evening in a tragic accident on State Road 80 in Hendry County.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the incident occurred around 6:17 p.m. when a 61-year-old man from Lehigh Acres, driving a pickup truck, lost a trash bag from his trailer. In response, he pulled onto the inside shoulder of the highway with his hazard lights activated, partially blocking the inside lane.
At the same time, a 27-year-old woman traveling west on State Road 80 approached the stopped truck. Authorities stated that she failed to move over for the pickup. As she neared the vehicle, the truck’s passenger—a 61-year-old man from Alva—stepped out to retrieve the trash bag from the roadway.
Tragically, the woman’s vehicle struck the pedestrian, as well as the truck’s trailer and passenger-side mirror. Emergency responders transported the man to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The Florida Highway Patrol Traffic Homicide Unit is actively investigating the crash. No additional details have been released at this time.
Our thoughts go out to the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Fatalities on Florida Roads
Pedestrian-involved crashes are a serious concern across Florida, where high-speed roadways such as State Road 80 present significant dangers. Visibility, driver attentiveness, and proper roadside safety measures all play critical roles in preventing these types of tragic incidents.
Many pedestrian accidents occur in situations where drivers fail to yield, do not see individuals on the roadway, or are unable to react in time. In this case, the risks were heightened by a combination of nighttime driving, a partially blocked lane, and a pedestrian attempting to retrieve an object from the road.
Victims of pedestrian crashes often suffer severe or fatal injuries, leaving families to cope with emotional distress, financial burdens, and unexpected legal matters. Understanding legal rights and seeking professional guidance can be crucial in navigating the aftermath of such a tragedy.
At Local Accident Reports, we are dedicated to providing resources and support for those affected by pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one has been impacted by a fatal crash, contact us today to learn more about your options for seeking justice and support.