St. Johns County, FL (February 18, 2026) – A 12-year-old boy died on Tuesday afternoon after a crash involving a mini dirt bike and a passenger vehicle along Longleaf Pine Parkway near Patriot Oaks Academy. The collision occurred on Tuesday, February 17, at approximately 3 p.m. Deputies with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the child was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Key Details
- Location: Longleaf Pine Parkway near the crosswalk outside Patriot Oaks Academy, St. Johns County
- Reported: February 17 at about 3 p.m.
- Vehicles Involved: Mini dirt bike and passenger car
- Victim: 12-year-old male student
- Outcome: Child died after being transported to the hospital
What We Know So Far
- Authorities say the boy was riding a mini dirt bike along Longleaf Pine Parkway near a school crosswalk.
- He was struck by a vehicle driven by a 17-year-old motorist.
- The child was taken to a hospital but did not survive.
- The victim has not yet been publicly identified.
- Based on current evidence, deputies said the teen driver will not face charges at this time.
- The crash remains under investigation by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Additional details about how the collision occurred.
- Whether any contributing roadway or visibility factors were involved.
- If further updates will be released following the investigation.
Local Context
Streets near schools such as Longleaf Pine Pkwy outside Patriot Oaks Academy often experience concentrated vehicle and pedestrian activity during afternoon dismissal hours. In St. Johns County, when a crash involves a child near a crosswalk, deputies typically secure the roadway, coordinate medical transport, and carefully document the scene before reopening traffic. Neighborhood roads connecting to school campuses can present visibility challenges and sudden turning movements, particularly when bikes or small motorized vehicles are involved. Community members frequently express concerns about safety in these corridors, especially as reports show an increase in serious bike-related crashes in recent years.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries; call 911 when emergency care is needed.
- Stay on scene and follow instructions from deputies to ensure the area is managed safely.
- If it is safe, take photos of vehicle positions, crosswalk markings, and traffic controls.
- Pay attention to any delayed symptoms after a crash and seek medical evaluation if concerns arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why can symptoms show up later after an accident?
A: Adrenaline and shock can temporarily mask pain, and certain injuries may not become noticeable until hours later.
Q: What often leads to intersection accidents?
A: Conflicting movements, limited visibility, and misjudged speeds can contribute to crashes near crosswalks and turning lanes.
Q: What does it mean when an accident is still under investigation?
A: It means deputies are reviewing evidence, statements, and scene details before making final determinations about how the crash occurred.
