Tragedy Strikes on I-95 in Indian River County
A 77-year-old Vermont man was struck and killed on Interstate 95 in Indian River County, Florida, Sunday afternoon while attempting to rescue a turtle, authorities confirmed. The accident occurred around 4:20 p.m., just north of Sebastian Boulevard, on the southbound lanes of the highway.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the man was crossing the highway to reach a turtle when a tragic chain-reaction crash unfolded.
Chain-Reaction Collision Ends in Fatality
A Miami woman driving southbound slowed down to avoid hitting the man, who was crossing the lanes on foot. A Dodge Ram pickup truck traveling behind her failed to brake in time, slamming into the back of her vehicle.
The impact caused the first vehicle to veer off-road, crashing through a fence and coming to rest on the west side of the highway. Meanwhile, the Dodge Ram continued forward and struck the pedestrian, who was thrown to the left shoulder of I-95.
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Victim Pronounced Dead at the Scene
First responders arrived on the scene shortly after the accident and pronounced the man dead. Authorities have not publicly released his name.
The 53-year-old driver of the Dodge Ram, from Port St. Lucie, and the 44-year-old woman and 49-year-old male passenger in the other vehicle were not injured, officials reported.
Road Closures and Ongoing Investigation
The southbound lanes of I-95 were temporarily shut down following the incident to allow for a full investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.
As of now, it’s unclear what happened to the turtle the victim was trying to rescue.
Wildlife Rescues and Highway Safety
This heartbreaking incident highlights the dangers of attempting wildlife rescues on high-speed roadways, like I-95. While well-intentioned, crossing major interstates on foot poses significant risks to pedestrians and motorists alike.
Safety advocates urge anyone who spots animals on highways to contact local authorities or animal control services rather than intervening directly.
