Deadly Charlotte County Crash Kills Two, Including 12-Year-Old Girl

A devastating high-speed crash in Charlotte County has left two people dead — including a 12-year-old girl — and another person critically injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

The fatal collision occurred Saturday night along Harbor View Road, a stretch of roadway residents say has a history of serious crashes.

Investigators say the crash began shortly after the driver of a 2003 Mazda B3000 pickup truck, a 25-year-old man from Lake Placid, left the scene of an earlier crash at Kings Highway and Veterans Boulevard. Authorities reported that no injuries occurred in that initial incident.

According to FHP:

• The pickup truck traveled south on Interstate 75
• It exited onto Harbor View Road and continued westbound at a high rate of speed
• At the same time, a 2001 Chevrolet Malibu driven by a 44-year-old Port Charlotte man was traveling east on Harbor View Road
• While negotiating a right-hand curve, the pickup crossed the centerline
• The pickup collided head-on with the Malibu

The impact of the crash was catastrophic.

Emergency responders pronounced two victims dead at the scene:

• The 25-year-old driver of the pickup truck
• A 12-year-old passenger riding in the Malibu

The driver of the Malibu, a 44-year-old Port Charlotte man, suffered critical injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.

Authorities have not released the names of those involved pending notification of family members.

Residents Raise Concerns About “Death Curve”

The crash occurred along a section of Harbor View Road that many residents say is particularly dangerous.

Neighbors have reportedly referred to the curve as a “death curve,” citing:

• Limited visibility due to surrounding vegetation
• A sharp curve that can be difficult to navigate at higher speeds
• A history of serious collisions in the area

Residents have called for roadway improvements, including better visibility and safety measures, to prevent future tragedies.

High-Speed and Head-On Collisions: A Deadly Combination

Head-on crashes are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents and often result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. When combined with excessive speed or reckless driving, the risk of death increases significantly.

Common factors in fatal head-on collisions include:

• Speeding
• Crossing the centerline
• Driver impairment or distraction
• Fleeing the scene of another crash
• Dangerous roadway design or limited visibility

These crashes often leave families facing sudden and overwhelming loss.

Ongoing Investigation

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the Charlotte County crash to determine all contributing factors, including:

• Speed and driving behavior
• Roadway conditions and visibility
• Whether impairment or distraction played a role
• Any additional circumstances surrounding the earlier crash

Authorities may release further details as the investigation progresses.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Car Accident in Florida

When a fatal crash occurs due to reckless driving, roadway hazards, or negligence, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.

A wrongful death case may allow families to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical costs prior to death
• Loss of companionship and emotional support
• Loss of financial support
• Pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members

An independent investigation is often critical in determining liability and preserving evidence.

Speak With a Florida Wrongful Death Attorney

If your family has lost a loved one in a serious or fatal crash anywhere in Florida, the attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm are available to help you understand your legal options.

Our firm focuses exclusively on personal injury and wrongful death cases and intentionally limits our caseload so every client receives direct attorney access and personalized attention.

Consultations are free and confidential, and we only recover fees if we obtain compensation for your family.