3-Year-Old Boy Dies After Wrong-Way Crash on Florida’s Turnpike That Also Killed His Mother

A devastating update has emerged following a wrong-way crash on Florida’s Turnpike in Indian River County, where a 3-year-old boy has died days after the collision that also claimed the life of his mother, according to family members and the Florida Highway Patrol.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 10:05 p.m. on May 9, 2026, near mile marker 173.5.

Investigators report:

• A 2025 Kia K4, driven by 26-year-old Lauren Rogers of Fort Pierce, was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes
• The vehicle collided head-on with a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica traveling in the correct direction
• The crash triggered a chain-reaction collision involving a third vehicle

Fatalities and Injuries

Officials confirmed:

• Lauren Rogers was pronounced dead at the scene
• Her 3-year-old son, Kylo, was critically injured and later died from his injuries
• A second child in the vehicle, 5-year-old Korbin, survived with non-life-threatening injuries
• The driver of the Chrysler, a 22-year-old man, and his passengers also sustained non-life-threatening injuries

Family members shared that Kylo was pronounced dead at 9:02 a.m. on May 14.

Remembering the Victims

Loved ones described Lauren Rogers as a devoted mother whose children were the center of her life.

Friends and family have organized a candlelight memorial service to honor her life, inviting the community to come together in remembrance.

The Dangers of Wrong-Way Crashes

Wrong-way crashes are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents due to:

• High-speed, head-on collisions
• Limited time for drivers to react
• Increased likelihood of severe or fatal injuries

These crashes often result in catastrophic outcomes, especially on highways like the Florida Turnpike.

Chain-Reaction Collisions

This incident also highlights the dangers of multi-vehicle crashes.

When a head-on collision occurs:

• Additional vehicles may become involved
• Debris and sudden stops increase the risk of further impacts
• Injuries can extend beyond the initial collision

Legal Considerations

In wrong-way crash cases, investigators will examine:

• How and why the vehicle entered the wrong direction
• Roadway signage and visibility
• Driver condition and potential impairment

Liability may depend on multiple factors uncovered during the investigation.

Wrongful Death Claims

Families who lose loved ones in crashes may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida law.

Compensation may include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. A full traffic homicide report is expected within the coming months.

Our Thoughts Are With the Family

This is an unimaginable tragedy involving the loss of both a young mother and her child. Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and community mourning this heartbreaking loss.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families across Florida in wrongful death cases involving catastrophic crashes. If your family has suffered a loss, we are here to help you understand your legal rights.

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