Three Killed in Head-On Crash on State Road 40 in DeLeon Springs

A devastating head-on crash in DeLeon Springs, Florida has left three people dead and several others injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The crash forced the closure of State Road 40 in both directions as emergency crews responded and investigators began examining what led to the collision.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 9:00 a.m. on May 4, 2026, at the intersection of State Road 40 and Lake Winona Road in Volusia County.

Troopers say a 2023 Honda CR-V was traveling eastbound on SR-40 when it crossed into the westbound lanes.

The Honda entered the direct path of a 2021 Ford Expedition traveling westbound, resulting in a head-on collision.

Fatalities and Injuries

Authorities confirmed that:

• Three occupants of the Honda CR-V were killed in the crash
• Five individuals inside the Ford Expedition—the driver and four passengers—were transported to local hospitals

The conditions of those injured have not yet been released.

The identities of the victims have not been publicly disclosed.

Road Closures and Emergency Response

Following the crash:

• Both eastbound and westbound lanes of State Road 40 were shut down
• Emergency crews responded to assist victims and secure the scene
• Traffic was diverted while investigators processed the crash

Major road closures are common in fatal crashes to allow for thorough investigation and cleanup.

The Dangers of Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes are among the most deadly types of motor vehicle accidents.

They often occur when:

• A vehicle crosses the centerline
• Drivers lose control
• There is driver distraction or impairment
• Visibility or roadway conditions are compromised

Because vehicles collide at combined speeds, the force of impact is extremely high, often resulting in fatal injuries.

Common Causes of Lane Departure Crashes

Crashes involving vehicles entering oncoming traffic may be caused by:

• Distracted driving
• Fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
• Impairment
• Medical emergencies
• Speeding or loss of control

Investigators will work to determine what caused the Honda to enter the wrong lane.

Legal Considerations in Fatal Crashes

When a crash involves multiple fatalities and injuries, determining liability is critical.

Authorities may examine:

• Driver behavior and actions prior to the crash
• Roadway conditions and design
• Vehicle condition or mechanical issues
• Whether negligence or other factors played a role

These findings can impact both criminal investigations and civil claims.

Wrongful Death and Injury Claims

Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, Florida Statutes §§ 768.16–768.26, families who lose loved ones in crashes may be entitled to pursue compensation.

Injured victims may also seek damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering

Cases involving multiple victims often require extensive investigation.

Investigation Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash and will release additional details as they become available.

Our Thoughts Are With the Victims’ Families

Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives and with those injured in this tragic crash.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families across Florida in serious accident and wrongful death cases. If your loved one has been killed or injured in a crash, our firm can help you understand your legal rights and pursue justice.

We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation for you or your family.