West Palm Beach, FL (January 6, 2026) – A 47-year-old man lost his life after being struck by an SUV while crossing Haverhill Rd mid-block on the night of January 4, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
The fatal incident occurred at approximately 9:17 p.m., when Werner Isaac Sanchez-Gomez of West Palm Beach attempted to cross Haverhill Rd outside of a designated crosswalk. As he entered the roadway, one vehicle managed to swerve and avoid him. However, a Cadillac Escalade traveling in the inside lane was unable to stop in time and struck Sanchez-Gomez, ultimately running over him before coming to a stop and calling emergency services.
First responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported Sanchez-Gomez to St. Mary’s Medical Center. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Authorities later reported that Sanchez-Gomez was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.
The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and cooperated with deputies. No additional injuries were reported. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Werner Isaac Sanchez-Gomez during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Safety and Mid-Block Crossings in Florida
The fatal pedestrian crash on January 4 on Haverhill Rd brings renewed attention to the dangers of mid-block crossings—especially at night and on high-traffic roadways. In Florida, pedestrian fatalities continue to rise, with many incidents occurring outside of designated crosswalks or intersections.
Haverhill Rd is a busy multi-lane roadway in Palm Beach County, with traffic moving at speeds that make sudden stops difficult—particularly in dark or low-visibility conditions. When pedestrians cross mid-block, drivers may have little to no warning, reducing the time available to react.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety, alcohol or drug impairment is a common factor in both pedestrian and driver-related incidents. In this case, the crash report indicated that the pedestrian was under the influence at the time, which may have contributed to the poor judgment involved in crossing the road unsafely.
While drivers are expected to remain alert for pedestrians, especially in urban areas, pedestrian safety also depends on using crosswalks and waiting for traffic signals when available. Public awareness campaigns continue to emphasize the importance of safe crossing behavior, but enforcement and education remain key to preventing tragedies.
Families dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one in a pedestrian crash often face not only grief but also uncertainty about what steps to take next. From medical expenses to emotional support, knowing where to turn is crucial.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to helping families impacted by fatal roadway incidents find clarity and support. If you’ve lost someone in a pedestrian crash or need help understanding your options, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to walk with you through the next steps.
