Available 
DeLand, FL (January 30, 2026) – A deadly single-vehicle crash shut down part of SR-15 (North Spring Garden Avenue) in DeLand early Friday morning. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred around 2 a.m. near Cranleigh Avenue. The driver of a 1997 Toyota Camry lost control while traveling northbound, veered off the roadway into the median, and struck a railroad crossing gate arm support pole. The impact caused the structure to rotate, and the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Key Details
- Location: DeLand, FL
- Where: SR-15 near Cranleigh Ave
- Type: Deadly Crash
- Reported: January 30, 2026, 2:00 AM
- Injuries: Confirmed fatality
- Responding Agency: Florida Highway Patrol
What We Know So Far
- A 43-year-old man was driving a 1997 Toyota Camry northbound on SR-15.
- He lost control of the vehicle near Cranleigh Ave around 2:00 AM.
- The car entered the median and struck a railroad crossing gate arm support pole.
- The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- What caused the driver to lose control
- Whether weather or roadway conditions played a role
- If any witnesses were present
- Estimated time for full roadway reopening
Local Context
North Spring Garden Avenue (SR-15) serves as a primary north–south route through DeLand, connecting local neighborhoods and access points with major corridors like Woodland Blvd (US-17/92). The crash near Cranleigh Ave occurred during early morning hours, prompting a detour onto US-17/92 as investigators worked the scene. This stretch includes multiple intersections and access points near residential zones, which can complicate both driver navigation and emergency response during off-peak hours. Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
What to Do Next
- Drivers in the area should follow detour signs and avoid SR-15 until the roadway is reopened.
- Anyone who witnessed the crash should contact FHP to assist with the investigation.
- Take extra caution when traveling near railroad crossings and detours, especially at night.
- Family members seeking crash details should contact authorities for official information and next steps.
FAQ
Q: Why might a single-vehicle crash cause a full road closure?
A: If the crash results in a fatality or damages critical infrastructure like railroad equipment, officials may close the road for safety and investigation.
Q: What role does FHP play in fatal crash investigations?
A: Florida Highway Patrol conducts scene assessments, gathers evidence, and determines whether external factors or violations contributed to the crash.
Q: Why are detours often directed to US-17/92 in DeLand?
A: US-17/92 is a major alternate route in the area with higher capacity and multiple access points, making it suitable for redirected traffic during closures.
Free Case Review