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EAST LAKE-ORIENT PARK, Hillsborough County, Fla., Oct. 17, 2026 — Two pedestrians died on Friday night, October 16, after a Jeep struck them as they tried to cross U.S. 301 in Hillsborough County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash happened near Elm Fair Blvd, just south of State Road 400.
Troopers said the crash happened shortly after 10:30 p.m. A Jeep driven by a 29-year-old Temple Terrace woman was heading north on U.S. 301 when the two pedestrians entered the road in its path.
The pedestrians, a 57-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman, both from Cocoa, were hit by the vehicle. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was taken to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
The highway patrol has not released the names of the two victims. It is not yet known whether the driver faces any citations or charges, and that part of the investigation remains open.
Our sympathies are with the families of everyone who lost their lives.
More on Crashes in East Lake-Orient Park, FL
This pedestrian crash happened in East Lake-Orient Park, FL. We cover crashes across Hillsborough County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Hillsborough County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pedestrian crashes more likely to happen at night?
Yes. Reduced visibility makes it harder for drivers to see people in or near the roadway, and a large share of pedestrian deaths happen after dark, especially on roads without good lighting or marked crossings.
What should a pedestrian do immediately after being hit by a vehicle?
If possible, stay still and call 911 right away. Even injuries that seem minor at first, like head impacts or soft tissue pain, can get worse, so it helps to be checked by paramedics or a hospital as soon as possible.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, but drivers and walkers both carry a duty to watch for each other, particularly on a wide, high-speed roadway like U.S. 301.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in East Lake-Orient Park, FL
Anyone who witnesses or is involved in a pedestrian crash should call 911 immediately and avoid moving anyone who may be injured unless there's an immediate danger, like oncoming traffic. Getting a prompt medical evaluation matters even if pain or swelling isn't obvious right away. It's also worth noting the time, weather, and lighting conditions, since these details can matter later and are easy to forget. For anyone in the East Lake-Orient Park area, staying near a well-lit crossing and making eye contact with drivers before stepping into the road can help reduce risk on a busy highway corridor like this one.
