Two South Lake High School Students Killed in Lake County Crash

Two teenagers from Groveland were tragically killed Saturday evening in a two-vehicle crash on State Road 33 in Lake County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The collision left several others—including young children—injured and has shaken the South Lake community.

The fatal crash occurred just after 6 p.m. near the intersection of SR 33 and Groveland Farms Road.

According to FHP:

• A 16-year-old girl from Groveland was driving a 2008 Toyota Scion southbound on SR 33.
• She attempted to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone, entering the northbound lanes.
• A 2021 Lincoln Aviator, driven by a 75-year-old Lakeland man, was approaching from the opposite direction.

The Scion crossed into the path of the Lincoln Aviator, resulting in a violent head-on collision.

Both teens in the Scion—a 16-year-old girl (the driver) and a 17-year-old boy (the passenger)—were pronounced dead at the scene.

Four occupants of the Lincoln Aviator were transported to local hospitals:

• 75-year-old male driver
• 66-year-old female passenger
• 6-year-old girl
• 5-year-old boy

All were reported to have non-life-threatening injuries. The crash remains under active investigation by FHP.

Lake County Schools released a statement mourning the loss of two South Lake High School students—a Junior and a Sophomore:

“Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and the entire school community during this difficult time. Grief counselors will be available on campus throughout the week.”

This tragedy has deeply impacted students, families, educators, and the broader Groveland community.

State Road 33 is a rural, two-lane highway with:

• Limited visibility
• Narrow shoulders
• Frequent no-passing zones
• Higher-than-average speeds

Passing another vehicle, especially in a marked no-passing zone, is one of the most dangerous maneuvers on two-lane roads. Even a brief miscalculation can lead to catastrophic head-on collisions.

Legal Options for Injured Victims and Families

Even when the at-fault driver in a crash is a minor or deceased, injured victims still have legal rights under Florida law.

1. Claims Against the At-Fault Driver’s Estate

If a negligent driver dies in the crash, victims may pursue compensation through:

• The teen’s auto insurance policy
• The teen’s estate, if applicable
• Potential vicarious liability claims against the teen’s parents under Florida’s “dangerous instrumentality doctrine,” which holds vehicle owners responsible for negligent operation

2. Compensation for Injured Passengers

Passengers—including minors—may be entitled to damages such as:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Future care needs
• Emotional trauma

Passenger claims are often straightforward, as passengers are rarely assigned fault in multi-vehicle crashes.

3. Wrongful Death Claims

Families of the two teen victims may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida Statutes §768.16–§768.26, which may compensate for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Mental pain and suffering of parents
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of the child’s future income and support

4. Claims for Injury Victims in the Lincoln Aviator

Passengers and the driver of the Lincoln may pursue claims for:

• Medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Even though the driver of the Scion was a minor, their family’s insurance policy typically provides coverage.

Why Immediate Legal Help Matters

Crashes involving minors, no-passing zones, and multiple injured parties are legally complex. Evidence must be preserved quickly, including:

• Crash scene measurements
• Vehicle black box data
• Cell phone records
• Witness statements
• Visibility and roadway conditions

Because several victims are involved, insurance policy limits may be quickly depleted. Speaking with an experienced attorney early ensures you are not left without the compensation you deserve.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we understand the devastating impact of sudden losses—especially involving teenagers. Our firm has extensive experience handling wrongful death and serious injury cases throughout Lake County and across Florida.

We offer:

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Direct access to a dedicated attorney
• Thorough investigations and aggressive advocacy

If you or your loved ones were affected by this tragic crash, contact us today to learn your legal rights and options.