64-Year-Old Woman Killed After Speeding Tesla Strikes Motorized Scooter in St. Augustine

A 64-year-old woman was killed Wednesday evening after a Tesla traveling at a high rate of speed struck her motorized scooter on State Road 16 in St. Augustine before crashing into a pole and overturning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities have confirmed the Tesla was not being pursued by law enforcement at the time of the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 7:30 p.m. on July 8, 2026, near the intersection of State Road 16 and North Ponce de Leon Boulevard (U.S. 1).

Investigators reported that:

• A 59-year-old man was driving a Tesla eastbound on State Road 16 at a high rate of speed.
• A 64-year-old woman was traveling in the same direction on a motorized scooter.
• The Tesla struck the rear of the scooter.
• After the impact, the Tesla continued eastbound without stopping.
• The vehicle then struck a traffic camera pole, crossed all lanes of U.S. 1, overturned, and came to rest in the parking lot of the Flagler Inn.

The scooter rider died at the scene.

The Tesla driver suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

Sheriff’s Office Clarifies Events Before the Crash

On Thursday, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office released additional details regarding the moments leading up to the collision.

According to investigators:

• A deputy was at a Circle K gas station on State Road 16 and Masters Drive when an employee reported a suspicious individual sitting inside a black Tesla.
• As the deputy approached the vehicle to make contact, the driver sped away at a high rate of speed.
• The deputy immediately broadcast information about the reckless driver over the radio to nearby units.

Authorities said that only moments later, the Tesla struck the woman riding the motorized scooter.

The Sheriff’s Office stated that another deputy observed the Tesla and activated emergency lights only after the crash had already occurred and while attempting to safely make a U-turn at nearby railroad tracks.

Seconds later, the Tesla crashed into the pole and overturned.

Officials emphasized that law enforcement was not pursuing the Tesla when the fatal collision occurred.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the sequence of events was captured on a deputy’s dashboard camera.

Investigation Continues

The Florida Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the fatal crash.

Investigators will likely examine:

• Vehicle speed.
• Event data recorded by the Tesla.
• Driver distraction.
• Possible impairment.
• Witness statements.
• Surveillance and dash camera footage.
• Physical evidence from the crash scene.

Authorities have not announced whether criminal charges are expected.

Florida Laws That May Apply

Because the investigation remains active, no formal determination of fault has been made.

Depending on the evidence, investigators may evaluate potential violations of Florida law, including:

• Florida Statute §316.183, requiring drivers to operate at a speed that is reasonable and prudent.
• Florida Statute §316.1925, governing careless driving.
• Florida Statute §316.192, governing reckless driving if evidence supports a willful or wanton disregard for public safety.
• Other criminal statutes if investigators determine additional unlawful conduct contributed to the fatal collision.

Any charging decisions will depend on the outcome of the investigation.

Potential Legal Rights Following a Fatal Crash

If investigators determine another driver’s negligence caused or contributed to the crash, surviving family members may have legal rights under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26).

Depending on the circumstances, eligible survivors may be able to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Loss of financial support and services.
• Loss of companionship and protection.
• Mental pain and suffering for qualifying family members.

Any civil claim would depend on the evidence developed during the investigation.

Motorized Scooter Riders Face Serious Risks

People traveling on motorized scooters have little protection in the event of a collision with a passenger vehicle.

Drivers should remain alert for vulnerable roadway users, obey posted speed limits, and maintain safe following distances, particularly on busy roadways and at intersections.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the fatal collision in coordination with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Additional information, including whether criminal charges will be filed, may be released as investigators complete their review.

Remembering the Victim

This tragic crash claimed the life of a woman who was simply traveling through St. Augustine on her motorized scooter. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time, and we wish the injured driver a full recovery.