Orange County, FL (March 3, 2025) – A devastating high-speed collision late Saturday night claimed the lives of four people, including a Windermere High School student, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The crash occurred at approximately 10:50 p.m. on Central Florida Parkway near Whitley Place. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but tragically, several victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities report that a Toyota Camry and a BMW M2 were both traveling east at high speeds when the BMW attempted to overtake the Toyota, resulting in a collision between the two vehicles. The impact caused both cars to veer off the roadway, striking trees and a light pole.
One of the deceased was identified as Sammy Lahik, a senior at Windermere High School. He was a backseat passenger in the Toyota and was ejected from the vehicle upon impact. Another Toyota passenger, whose identity has not yet been released, also lost their life at the scene. The Toyota’s driver, a 20-year-old from Kissimmee, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The driver of the BMW, a 26-year-old Orlando man, was pronounced dead at the scene, along with his 23-year-old female passenger, who later succumbed to her injuries at the hospital.
Officials continue investigating the incident, with early reports indicating that excessive speed played a critical role in the crash.
Superintendent Maria Vazquez of Orange County Public Schools issued a heartfelt statement expressing condolences to the Windermere High School community, emphasizing the availability of grief counselors for students and staff.
This tragedy follows a recent fatal accident involving a Lake Nona High School student, also attributed to speeding. Authorities urge drivers to adhere to speed limits to prevent further loss of life.
High-Speed Car Accidents in Florida
Speeding remains one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in Florida. With its extensive highway system and densely populated urban areas, the state frequently sees high-speed collisions that result in severe injuries and fatalities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speed-related crashes account for a significant percentage of traffic deaths each year. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, increases stopping distances, and amplifies the force of impact in a collision. As seen in the recent Orange County crash, high-speed driving often results in catastrophic consequences, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.