DeLand, FL (February 3, 2025) – A motorist was killed in a fiery single-vehicle crash on Interstate 4 early Monday morning, while an 84-year-old man in a wheelchair lost his life in a separate pedestrian collision west of DeLand on Saturday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The first incident occurred at approximately 3:20 a.m. Monday when a vehicle traveling eastbound on I-4 veered off the road near State Road 44, east of DeLand. Investigators reported that the car crashed into an electrical box before continuing along the grass shoulder and striking the concrete support of an overpass. Upon impact, the vehicle erupted in flames, killing the driver.
Authorities have yet to determine the identity of the victim or the make and model of the vehicle involved. The crash remains under investigation.
In a separate accident on Saturday at 10:03 p.m., an 84-year-old DeLand resident in an electric wheelchair was fatally struck at the intersection of Old New York Avenue and Ridgewood Avenue.
According to FHP, a 26-year-old man from DeLand was driving east on Old New York Avenue when the elderly pedestrian, who was not in a marked crosswalk, attempted to cross in front of the vehicle. The driver remained at the scene as emergency responders arrived. Tragically, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both accidents remain under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol.
Fatal Accidents in Florida
Highway crashes and pedestrian accidents remain serious concerns across Florida, especially in areas with high-speed roadways and limited pedestrian infrastructure.
Single-vehicle crashes, such as the fiery collision on I-4, often result from driver fatigue, distraction, or hazardous road conditions. When vehicles leave the roadway at high speeds, the risk of fatal outcomes increases, particularly if they collide with fixed objects like overpasses or utility structures.
Pedestrian-involved accidents, especially those involving individuals with mobility limitations, highlight the dangers of crossing roadways outside designated crosswalks. Florida has one of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures, including better lighting, crosswalk accessibility, and driver awareness.
For those affected by serious accidents, seeking legal guidance can help navigate the challenges of medical costs, insurance claims, and financial recovery.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash, speaking with a qualified professional can help clarify your rights and potential options for compensation.
