Suwannee County Teen Remembered After Tragic Fatal Crash on I-10

The Suwannee County community is mourning the tragic loss of 19-year-old Cloey Criggall, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 in Gadsden County on Sunday afternoon.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the crash occurred around 4 p.m. as Cloey was driving westbound on I-10 amid heavy rainfall. Investigators say her vehicle veered off the roadway and collided with a tree.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Friends, classmates, and teachers across Branford and North Central Florida have expressed deep sorrow following the devastating news, remembering Cloey as a bright and compassionate young woman with a promising future.

Cloey was a Branford High School graduate from the Class of 2025 and a standout athlete in the school’s softball program. She was also a TV20 Meldon Law Scholar Athlete, recognized earlier this year for her leadership both on and off the field.

Her commitment to teamwork, academics, and community spirit earned her the admiration of peers and coaches alike.

In a statement, TV20 Sports Director Jake Rongholt expressed heartfelt condolences:

“We at TV20 Sports share our condolences with the Branford softball program, the community, and everyone else within the tight-knit softball family around North Central Florida.”

Friends described Cloey as someone who “lit up every room she walked into” — a dedicated student, athlete, and friend whose enthusiasm and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Weather-Related Crashes a Persistent Danger on Florida Highways

The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that heavy rain was falling at the time of the accident — a factor that continues to contribute to deadly crashes throughout the state.

Wet roads, decreased visibility, and hydroplaning are among the most common dangers associated with inclement weather driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that roughly 22% of all vehicle crashes in the U.S. involve adverse weather conditions.

When visibility is poor and pavement is slick, even experienced drivers may lose control of their vehicles. FHP reminds motorists to reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid sudden movements when driving in heavy rain.

Unfortunately, even these precautions are not always enough to prevent tragedy.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Car Accident

When a fatal crash occurs, surviving family members may be entitled to bring a wrongful death claim under Florida Statute §768.19. This type of lawsuit allows families to seek justice and financial compensation for losses such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Lost financial support and services
• Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
• Mental anguish and grief of surviving relatives

While no legal action can undo such a devastating loss, pursuing accountability can help ease the financial and emotional burden for those left behind.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we help families across Florida navigate these complex cases with compassion, experience, and dedication. Our attorneys investigate the full circumstances surrounding the crash — including weather conditions, road design, and potential vehicle defects — to determine all possible causes and liable parties.

If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal car crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The attorneys at Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm represent grieving families across Florida in complex accident and wrongful death cases.

We handle every aspect of your claim — from investigation to litigation — so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.

📞 Call (305) 638-4143 or contact us online for a free consultation. We charge no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.