Sarasota County, FL (April 12, 2026) – A 34-year-old woman from New Port Richey was killed in a crash early Sunday morning on Interstate 75 in Sarasota County.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 12:08 a.m. in the northbound lanes near mile marker 178.
Investigators say the woman was driving a pickup truck towing a trailer loaded with sod when the vehicle stopped in the right travel lane. At some point, passengers exited the truck to check on a possible issue with the trailer.
Authorities report that a semi-truck traveling northbound in the same lane collided with the trailer and the left side of the pickup. The driver of the pickup truck was pronounced dead at the scene.
Three passengers were also involved. A 19-year-old man from Tampa sustained minor injuries, while a 33-year-old man from Alva and a 3-year-old child from New Port Richey, both outside the vehicle at the time, also suffered minor injuries. All were transported to a nearby hospital.
The 61-year-old driver of the semi-truck was also taken to a hospital with minor injuries.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and worked to assist the injured and clear the roadway. The crash remains under investigation, and additional details may be released as they become available.
We extend our condolences to the victim’s family and wish the injured a full recovery.
What Risks Are Associated with Stopped Vehicles on Highways
Vehicles stopped in active travel lanes pose serious dangers, especially on high-speed roadways like interstates.
Drivers approaching from behind may have limited time to react, increasing the risk of rear-end or secondary collisions.
Exiting a vehicle on a highway can further increase the risk, particularly in low-visibility conditions such as nighttime.
