Bradenton, FL (January 20, 2026) – A tragic early morning collision between a motorcycle and a sedan at the intersection of State Road 70 and Caruso Rd claimed the life of a 16-year-old passenger and left a 17-year-old motorcyclist in critical condition, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The fatal crash occurred around 3:22 a.m. Monday when the two teens were riding eastbound on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle approaching a steady red light at Caruso Rd. Simultaneously, a 52-year-old driver of a Chevrolet sedan was traveling westbound on SR-70 and turning left onto Caruso Rd under a green light, according to a report by Trooper Mario Araujo and homicide investigator Corporal Matthew Sill.
As the motorcycle entered the intersection, it collided with the right-front side of the turning sedan. The impact was severe enough to eject both teens from the motorcycle. Emergency medical personnel from Manatee County EMS pronounced the 16-year-old passenger dead at the scene. The 17-year-old driver was rushed to HCA Florida Blake Medical Center, where he remains in critical condition.
Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that both teens were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, and the driver of the sedan was properly restrained with a seatbelt.
FHP Master Trooper Kenneth Watson stated that, based on surveillance footage and initial findings, it appears the motorcycle may have been at fault, noting that the traffic signal was red for the eastbound lanes while the sedan had a green arrow to turn.
This marks the second motorcycle-related fatality in Manatee County over the long holiday weekend. Just days earlier, a pedestrian was fatally struck by a motorcycle and a second vehicle while crossing Manatee Avenue in Bradenton.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those impacted by this devastating accident. We send our deepest condolences and hope for healing in the days ahead.
