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Lantana, FL (June 25, 2026) – One person was killed and two others suffered serious injuries following a chain-reaction crash involving eight vehicles Tuesday morning in Lantana.
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, the collision occurred at approximately 11:12 a.m. on June 24 at the intersection of East Ocean Avenue and Dixie Highway.
Investigators said a 34-year-old Lake Worth Beach man driving a 2017 Jeep Wrangler initially struck a Chevrolet truck north of the intersection before fleeing southbound at a high rate of speed. Authorities believe alcohol or drugs may have been a factor in the incident.
As the Jeep continued south on Dixie Highway, the driver failed to slow or stop and crashed into a line of vehicles stopped at a red light. The impact triggered a chain-reaction collision involving multiple vehicles, including a 2023 Mazda CX, a 2006 Honda Civic, a 2024 Ford F-350 pickup, a 2016 Toyota 4Runner, a 2022 Freightliner box truck, a 2018 Toyota C-HR, and a 2006 Toyota Prius.
Authorities identified the deceased victim as 67-year-old Jose Bedoya of Boca Raton, who was driving the Mazda. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency crews reported extensive damage to several vehicles. Three people required heavy extrication that lasted approximately 10 minutes before they could be removed from the wreckage.
The driver of the Jeep and the driver of the Honda Civic were airlifted by Trauma Hawk helicopters to a trauma center with serious injuries. The driver of the Toyota 4Runner sustained minor injuries. No other occupants were reported injured.
Dixie Highway was closed in both directions for several hours while investigators processed the scene and crews cleared the wreckage.
The crash remains under investigation. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Bedoya and wish a full recovery to those injured.
What Do Investigators Review in Multi-Vehicle Chain-Reaction Crashes?
Chain-reaction collisions involving numerous vehicles require extensive investigation due to the complexity of the impacts and the number of people involved. Investigators typically examine vehicle damage, roadway evidence, witness statements, surveillance footage, and crash reconstruction data to determine how the sequence of collisions unfolded.
When authorities suspect impairment, additional investigative steps may include toxicology testing and a review of driver behavior before the crash. High-speed incidents can significantly increase the severity of injuries and vehicle damage, particularly when vehicles are stopped or moving slowly at intersections.
Investigators also work to establish the timeline of events leading up to the collision, including any prior crashes or actions that may have contributed to the incident. These findings help authorities determine the factors involved and may assist in any future legal proceedings.
