Port Charlotte Woman Killed in DeSoto County Crash; Driver Arrested for No Valid License

A 67-year-old woman from Port Charlotte was killed Tuesday afternoon in a crash in DeSoto County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The fatal collision occurred at the intersection of County Road 769 (Kings Highway) and County Road 761 near Arcadia.

Authorities say the crash involved a sport utility vehicle and a pickup truck.

According to troopers, the Port Charlotte woman was driving an SUV when she turned onto County Road 769 and entered the path of a northbound Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Investigators say the front of the Dodge Ram struck the driver’s side of the SUV, causing severe damage.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but the 67-year-old woman was pronounced dead following the collision.

Officials have not yet released her name pending notification of family members.

The driver of the Dodge Ram, identified as Marlon Contreras-Galindo of Sarasota, was not injured in the crash, according to investigators.

However, authorities determined that he did not have a valid driver’s license.

Following the crash, Contreras-Galindo was taken into custody and transported to the DeSoto County Jail on charges related to driving without a license.

It is not clear at this time whether additional charges will be filed.

Serious crashes frequently occur at rural intersections such as those along Kings Highway, where vehicles may be traveling at higher speeds.

Left turns and cross-traffic movements are among the most common causes of intersection crashes.

Factors that can contribute to these collisions include:

• Failure to yield the right of way
• Limited visibility or obstructed views
• Speeding vehicles
• Driver distraction
• Inexperienced or unlicensed drivers

Because these crashes often involve vehicles traveling at highway speeds, they can result in severe or fatal injuries.

Legal Issues When Drivers Lack a Valid License

When a driver involved in a fatal crash does not have a valid license, it can raise significant legal concerns.

Operating a vehicle without proper licensing may indicate:

• Lack of required driving qualifications
• Prior license suspensions or revocations
• Failure to meet state driving requirements

In some cases, unlicensed driving can strengthen negligence claims in civil lawsuits, especially when the crash results in serious injuries or death.

Families affected by fatal crashes may be able to pursue wrongful death claims against negligent drivers or other responsible parties.

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the deadly crash at the intersection of County Road 769 and County Road 761 in DeSoto County.

Authorities have not yet released additional information about the events leading up to the collision.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar accident, contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.