By Guy deBoer
Tavernier, FL
A tragic single-vehicle accident on Monday evening has claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy from Tavernier, casting a somber mood over the Upper Florida Keys community.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on May 5 along U.S. 1 near the entrance to the Winn-Dixie shopping plaza. An 18-year-old male from Islamorada was driving an SUV northbound with two passengers when the vehicle attempted a left turn into the plaza’s parking lot.
During the turn, the SUV struck the raised median curb, flipping onto its passenger side and sliding across the southbound lanes before coming to a rest near the lot entrance.
The 15-year-old passenger, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and the second passenger, a 19-year-old from Key Largo, sustained minor injuries and were treated on site.
The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of wearing seatbelts and exercising caution behind the wheel,” said a Monroe County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson. “No family should have to endure this kind of loss.”
In response to the tragedy, local schools and community leaders have expressed condolences and are discussing renewed seatbelt safety awareness efforts.
As the investigation continues, the tight-knit Keys community mourns a life taken far too soon—and reflects on how small choices can carry lasting consequences.
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