A tragic incident occurred on Friday afternoon that resulted in the death of a 68-year-old man from Sebastian. The crash was severe enough to close both directions of U.S. Highway 1.
The man was driving a vintage 1967 Volkswagen Beetle at the time of the accident. The other driver involved was a 47-year-old Vero Beach man who sustained minor injuries. He was driving a white 2022 Lexus.
The collision occurred near the area between Jong’s Produce and Mr. Oil Xpress Lube, close to 99th Street.
The Florida Highway Patrol told Sebastian Daily the Lexus was heading south on US1 when the driver of the Volkswagen failed to yield the right of way. The driver, attempting to turn left and travel north, didn’t give enough time for the Lexus to pass.
Consequently, the Lexus collided with the Volkswagen, causing the vehicle to be pushed towards the side of the road. The Lexus eventually came to a stop in the northbound lane.
Tragically, the Sebastian resident couldn’t survive the injuries sustained from the crash. He was rushed to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead by the hospital staff, as reported by the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash investigation is ongoing. The FHP does not disclose the names of individuals involved in fatal crashes.
