Loxahatchee, FL (May 19, 2026) – Two men were flown to a trauma center Monday afternoon, May 18, after a two-vehicle collision near Hamlin Blvd and Mandarin Blvd in western Palm Beach County. One of the vehicles overturned several times, and the driver of a 2000 Toyota 4Runner was thrown from the SUV during the violent sequence.
Investigators said a 2018 Audi A4 traveling north on Mandarin Blvd stopped at a stop sign before entering the intersection. The Audi then entered the path of a westbound Toyota 4Runner on Hamlin Blvd. Deputies stated that vegetation and large power control boxes blocked the teenage driver’s view of approaching traffic.
The Audi driver, identified as 17-year-old Alessandra Paloma Ciamillo of Loxahatchee, received minor injuries and was taken to Palms West Hospital. The Toyota driver, 32-year-old Cayetano Guerra Jr. of Loxahatchee, and passenger Eduardo Gonzalez, 31, of West Palm Beach, were both seriously hurt. Investigators also noted that neither man was wearing a seatbelt.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office continues reviewing the cause of the crash. We hope those receiving treatment make a steady recovery.
Why Visibility Problems at Rural Intersections Can Be Dangerous
Intersections in rural parts of Florida can become hazardous when drivers have limited visibility. Trees, overgrown vegetation, utility equipment, and roadside structures may block a clear view of oncoming traffic, especially at stop-controlled crossings. Even when a driver comes to a complete stop, hidden vehicles traveling at highway speeds can leave very little time to react safely.
Rollover risks also increase with SUVs and taller vehicles because of their higher center of gravity. During sudden steering movements or side contact, these vehicles are more likely to tip and overturn. Seatbelt use remains one of the most effective ways to reduce severe harm during these types of roadway emergencies, particularly when a vehicle rolls multiple times.