3 Killed, 5 Seriously Injured in Head-On Crash on SR-40 in Volusia County

A devastating head-on collision in Volusia County, Florida has left three people dead and five others seriously injured after two vehicles collided on State Road 40, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 9:00 a.m. on May 6, 2026, near the intersection of State Road 40 and Lake Winona Road in De Leon Springs.

Authorities report:

• The crash involved a 2023 Honda CR-V and a 2021 Ford Expedition
• The Honda was traveling eastbound on SR-40
• The Honda crossed into the westbound lane
• The two vehicles collided head-on

Fatalities and Injuries

Officials confirmed:

• Three people inside the Honda CR-V were killed at the scene
  • A 21-year-old driver from Port Orange
  • A 23-year-old male passenger from Melbourne
  • A 22-year-old female passenger from Gainesville
• Five people inside the Ford Expedition were seriously injured and transported to the hospital, including:
  • A 35-year-old driver from Ocala
  • A 39-year-old woman
  • Three children, ages 16, 14, and 11

The Dangers of Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents due to:

• Combined speeds of both vehicles
• Direct impact force
• Limited opportunity for drivers to avoid the collision

These crashes often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

Possible Causes of Wrong-Way or Lane Departure Crashes

While the investigation is ongoing, crashes involving a vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic may be caused by:

• Driver distraction
• Fatigue or impairment
• Speeding
• Medical emergencies
• Loss of vehicle control

Investigators will work to determine what caused the Honda to enter the opposite lane.

Legal Considerations in Multi-Victim Crashes

Crashes involving multiple victims often require detailed investigation to determine liability.

Key factors may include:

• Driver actions leading up to the crash
• Road and traffic conditions
• Whether any laws were violated

Each injured party may have individual legal claims depending on the circumstances.

Compensation for Victims and Families

Victims of serious crashes—and families of those killed—may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses and long-term care
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Wrongful death damages

Cases involving multiple victims often involve complex claims and insurance issues.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash and has not yet released additional details regarding contributing factors.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victims

This is a heartbreaking tragedy. Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives and with those injured as they recover.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent individuals and families across Florida in serious accident and wrongful death cases. If your family has been affected by a crash, we are here to help you understand your legal rights and options.

We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for you.