Greenacres, FL (February 12, 2026) – A 14-year-old boy has died three days after being struck by a van while crossing Jackson St near 10th Ave N in Greenacres. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said the crash occurred late Friday night, and the teen later died Monday, February 9, at a local hospital.
Key Details
- Location: Jackson St near 10th Ave N, west of John I. Leonard High School, Greenacres
- Incident type: Pedestrian crash involving van
- Reported: Friday, February 6 at 10:25 p.m.
- Victim: 14-year-old Juan Monge of Palm Springs
- Vehicle involved: Van driven by a 50-year-old Greenacres woman
- Status: No charges pending; investigation ongoing
What We Know So Far
- Investigators said Monge exited an Uber that was traveling northbound on Jackson St before attempting to cross the roadway.
- The van was traveling southbound on Jackson St in an area without overhead street lighting.
- Authorities reported that the teen stepped into the path of the van, which was unable to avoid the collision.
- Monge sustained a significant head injury and was transported in critical condition before later dying at the hospital.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether any additional safety measures may be considered for the roadway.
- If further findings could impact the status of potential charges.
- Additional details regarding lighting or visibility conditions at the time of the crash.
Local Context
The area along Jackson St near 10th Ave N sits close to John I. Leonard High School and serves both residential neighborhoods and school-related traffic. Late-night conditions can reduce visibility, particularly in stretches without overhead lighting. Roads near schools often see pedestrians crossing at various points, especially during events or weekend activities. When a serious pedestrian crash occurs, deputies typically close portions of the roadway to document the scene and assess visibility factors. Community members may also raise concerns about lighting, signage, or crossing patterns in the aftermath of such incidents.
What to Do Next
- If you witness a pedestrian crash, call 911 immediately and provide the exact location and direction of travel.
- Remain at the scene if it is safe and follow instructions from responding deputies and emergency personnel.
- If you observed the incident, consider providing a brief statement to investigators to assist with the review.
- Drivers and pedestrians alike should remain alert in low-light areas and use extra caution when crossing or traveling near school zones.
FAQ
Q: Why can pedestrian crashes be especially serious?
A: Pedestrians lack the protection of a vehicle, making them more vulnerable to severe injuries in a collision.
Q: Why are nighttime crashes often more dangerous?
A: Reduced visibility and limited lighting can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians or obstacles in time to react.
Q: What does it mean when no charges are pending?
A: It means investigators have not determined that criminal violations occurred at this stage, though the case may still be under review.
