Father and 1-Year-Old Killed in Baymeadows Pedestrian Crash: A Tragic Reminder of Florida’s Roadway Risks

A heartbreaking crash in Duval County has left a family grieving the loss of a father and his 1-year-old child, both struck and killed while crossing Baymeadows Road on Friday night. According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the man was carrying his child across the eastbound lanes around 8:30 p.m. when a vehicle struck them.

Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). Authorities confirmed that the driver involved remained at the scene, was transported to a nearby hospital, and is cooperating with investigators.

This tragic incident marks yet another fatality in what is shaping up to be a dangerous year on Duval County roads. According to local authorities, 62 traffic-related deaths have already occurred in the county so far this year, 12 of which involved pedestrians. These numbers reflect a troubling trend seen not just in Jacksonville, but across Florida.

Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians, due to a combination of high-speed roadways, insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, distracted driving, and urban sprawl that encourages car dependency.

Crashes involving child pedestrians are especially devastating. Young children are particularly vulnerable due to their small size and limited ability to anticipate traffic dangers. In many cases, these crashes happen in low-light conditions, near intersections, or in areas with limited crosswalks or signage.

While each incident is unique, pedestrian crashes often share common risk factors:

• Poorly lit roads or intersections
• Lack of sidewalks or marked crosswalks
• Distracted or speeding drivers
• Limited pedestrian visibility at night
• Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way

These factors are currently being investigated in the Baymeadows Road crash.

What Families Should Know After a Fatal Pedestrian Crash

When a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident—especially a child—the grief is immeasurable. While nothing can undo such a loss, families may have legal rights under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act. A wrongful death claim is a civil legal action that allows surviving family members to pursue compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to the incident
• Loss of income or future support
• Loss of companionship and parental guidance
• Emotional pain and suffering

Wrongful death claims in Florida must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate, typically on behalf of the surviving spouse, children, or parents. These claims are separate from any criminal investigation or traffic citation that may arise from the incident.

It’s also important to note that claims involving child victims can involve additional legal complexities, including the calculation of future support and the long-term impact on surviving family members.

As the Baymeadows community reels from this loss, many are coming together to support the victims’ family. A donation page has been set up to help cover expenses and provide relief during this unimaginable time.

Donate Here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donation-in-memory-of-mitchell-and-everett