North Port Woman Killed in Crash on I-275 Near U.S. 19 in Manatee County

A woman from North Port lost her life Saturday morning following a crash on Interstate 275 near U.S. 19 in Manatee County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The collision temporarily shut down the on-ramp to I-275 as first responders and investigators worked at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on July 11, 2026, on westbound Interstate 275 near U.S. 19 South.

Investigators reported that:

• A North Port woman was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe westbound on I-275.
• During the incident, the Tahoe came into contact with another vehicle traveling in the same direction.
• Following the collision, the SUV left the roadway.
• The vehicle struck a guardrail, crossed the grassy median area, and overturned several times.
• The driver was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver and three occupants of the other vehicle were not injured.

Authorities have not released the identity of the woman pending notification of her family.

Investigation Underway

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

Investigators will review a variety of factors, including:

• The sequence of events leading up to the collision.
• Vehicle positions and damage.
• Roadway conditions.
• Witness statements.
• Physical evidence from the crash scene.
• Electronic data from the vehicles, if available.

At this time, the Florida Highway Patrol has not announced whether any citations or criminal charges are expected.

Serious Highway Crashes Often Require Extensive Investigation

Fatal crashes on interstate highways are carefully investigated to determine exactly how the collision occurred.

Crash reconstruction specialists may analyze roadway evidence, vehicle damage, event data recorders, and witness accounts to develop a complete understanding of the incident. It is important not to draw conclusions about fault until investigators have completed their review.

Potential Legal Options After a Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash

When a fatal crash occurs, surviving family members may have legal rights depending on the facts uncovered during the investigation.

If another driver’s negligence, a vehicle defect, unsafe roadway condition, or another contributing factor played a role in the collision, eligible family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26).

Depending on the circumstances, compensation may be available for:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Loss of financial support and future earnings.
• Loss of companionship and protection.
• Mental pain and suffering for eligible surviving family members.

In some cases, investigators may also examine whether defective vehicle components, roadway design issues, or the actions of additional parties contributed to the crash.

Civil claims are separate from the Florida Highway Patrol’s investigation and focus on determining whether negligence played a role in causing the collision.

Preserving Evidence Is Often Critical

Following a fatal crash, important evidence may include:

• Crash scene photographs.
• Vehicle event data recorder information.
• Surveillance or dash camera footage.
• Witness statements.
• Crash reconstruction reports.
• Vehicle inspection records.
• Medical and emergency response records.

Prompt preservation of evidence can be important when evaluating potential legal claims.

Investigation Continues

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the fatal crash on Interstate 275 in Manatee County.

Additional information may be released as investigators complete their review.

The loss of a loved one in a traffic collision is a devastating tragedy that forever changes the lives of those left behind. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the woman who lost her life, and we hope everyone affected by this incident finds strength during this difficult time.