Tragic Collision Claims Life of Elderly Woman in Lake County

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By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC)
Published March 19th, 2024

Lake County, FL – A tragic road incident occurred early this morning, March 19, 2024, at the intersection of O'Brien Road and State Road 19, claiming the life of a 73-year-old woman from Howey in the Hills, Florida.

Authorities report that a 2004 semi-truck with a trailer, attempting a left turn to head north on State Road 19, crossed into the path of an oncoming 2017 Toyota 4-Runner traveling southbound. The front of the Toyota collided with the left side of the semi-truck's trailer in a devastating impact.

The semi-truck driver was unharmed in the collision and remained at the scene, cooperating with the ongoing investigation. However, the driver of the Toyota, whose identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin, was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead upon arrival.

Officials have confirmed that the victim was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. The road was closed for several hours as emergency services and investigators worked at the scene, causing significant traffic delays.

The Florida Highway Patrol has issued a statement urging motorists to exercise caution at intersections and to seek alternative routes where possible. The crash remains under investigation, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the fatal incident.

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