Fiery Crash on I-75 in Sumter County Leaves One Teen Dead, Another Arrested for Vehicular Homicide

A tragic crash on Interstate 75 has left one teenager dead and another facing serious criminal charges after a high-speed wreck ended in flames and a dramatic attempt to flee the scene, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The incident occurred around 2:50 p.m. on Monday, near mile marker 332, just north of the Wildwood exit. Troopers say a 17-year-old driver from Inverness, identified as Dylan Austin Richards, was operating a Dodge Challenger at dangerously high speeds while weaving through traffic.

According to investigators, Richards was driving recklessly in the southbound lanes, attempting to pass slower vehicles. In a failed effort to avoid a collision, he veered onto the outside shoulder, lost control of the vehicle, and slammed into a tree. The impact caused the Dodge Challenger to catch fire, turning the scene into a fiery wreckage.

Inside the vehicle were four teenage passengers, ranging in age from 13 to 17. Tragically, a 16-year-old boy, also from Inverness, was killed in the crash. The other passengers, along with the driver, sustained injuries of varying severity.

Rather than seek help, Richards reportedly exited the burning car, removed the license plate, and fled on foot, leaving behind his injured passengers and deceased friend. After a brief search, troopers discovered him hiding in a chicken coop nearby.

Richards has since been arrested and charged with:

• Vehicular homicide
• Leaving the scene of a crash involving death

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet confirmed whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash.

Legal Options After a Fatal Car Accident

This heartbreaking incident is a sobering reminder of how dangerous reckless driving can be—especially among young, inexperienced drivers. While criminal charges will be handled by the state, the families of the victims may also pursue civil action through personal injury or wrongful death claims.

Possible legal avenues include:

• Wrongful Death Lawsuit: The family of the 16-year-old victim may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, emotional suffering, and loss of future income.
• Personal Injury Claims: Injured passengers may be able to recover damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation.
• Parental Liability: Depending on vehicle ownership and insurance status, the driver’s guardians may also bear civil responsibility.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the profound impact these tragedies have on families and communities. If your child has been injured or killed in a car crash caused by another’s negligence or recklessness, we’re here to help you get the answers and justice you deserve.

Our team handles complex wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases throughout Florida. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win.