Port St. Lucie, FL (May 28, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash on Monday afternoon claimed the life of a 72-year-old woman and left her husband in critical condition in Port St. Lucie. The fatal collision occurred around 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Northwest Glades Cut Off Road and Northwest Commerce Center Drive, prompting a full emergency response from local authorities.
Port St. Lucie Police reported that 74-year-old John Latowski was driving a 2011 BMW convertible southbound on NW Glades Cut Off Rd. His wife, 72-year-old Joan Latowski, was riding in the passenger seat. At the same time, a 2023 Kia driven by 24-year-old Cierra Lloyd was heading westbound on NW Commerce Center Dr.
According to investigators, the Kia failed to yield the right of way to the BMW, leading to a violent collision between the two vehicles. Both John and Joan Latowski were rushed to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital, where Joan was sadly pronounced dead. John remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Cierra Lloyd and her three passengers were also taken to the hospital, but their injuries were not life-threatening, police said.
The crash remains under active investigation by the Port St. Lucie Police Department as they work to determine the full circumstances and contributing factors.
We offer our deepest condolences to the Latowski family and hope for a full recovery for all those injured.
Right-of-Way Crashes in Florida Intersections
The fatal crash at NW Glades Cut Off Rd and NW Commerce Center Dr brings attention to a common and often deadly issue on Florida’s roadways: right-of-way violations at intersections. When a driver fails to yield as required by traffic laws, the results can be catastrophic, particularly when vehicles are moving at higher speeds on through roads like Glades Cut Off Rd.
Port St. Lucie, like many growing Florida communities, has seen an increase in traffic congestion and suburban development, which often leads to heavier intersection usage and more opportunities for error. Monday’s crash, which claimed the life of Joan Latowski and critically injured her husband, illustrates just how quickly these split-second mistakes can turn fatal.
Right-of-way accidents are not only tragic, they are also often preventable. While enforcement and education efforts continue, victims and families must contend with the sudden financial, emotional, and legal consequences. Florida law allows those injured by another driver’s negligence to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In fatal cases, wrongful death claims may also apply.
For those left behind, the grief can be compounded by the need to manage medical decisions, funeral arrangements, and potential legal action—all while navigating the trauma of an unexpected loss.
If your family has been affected by a right-of-way collision, don’t wait to seek help. Resources are available to support your recovery and protect your rights.
Navigating the aftermath of a crash is never easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Local Accident Reports, we connect victims and families with the resources and guidance they need to move forward after serious accidents. Contact us today to begin the journey toward healing and justice.
