Sumter County officials are mourning a devastating traffic accident that occurred Saturday night at approximately 7:45 p.m. at the intersection of US‑301 and County Road 652. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), three people lost their lives, among them two children—a 10‑year‑old girl and an 11‑year‑old boy.
Sequence of the crash
Investigators say the chain‑reaction began when a 54‑year‑old man from Bushnell was driving a Ford F‑150 northbound on US‑301. The truck approached the intersection and, for reasons still under investigation, did not slow down or stop. It struck a Jeep Compass driven by a 53‑year‑old Bushnell woman, which in turn hit a Nissan NV owned by a 61‑year‑old Bushnell man that was stopped to turn left onto CR‑652.
The impact caused the Jeep to overturn into the southbound lane of US‑301. A fourth vehicle, another Jeep Compass driven by a 32‑year‑old man from Spring Hill, collided with the overturned Jeep, adding to the chaos.
Victims and injuries
FHP confirmed that the two children were seated in the overturned Jeep. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Jeep, the 53‑year‑old Bushnell woman, was taken to a nearby hospital where she later died from her injuries.
The remaining drivers—those of the Ford F‑150, the Nissan NV and the second Jeep—suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment.
Community response
Local leaders expressed deep sorrow over the loss of young lives and urged residents to practice caution at busy intersections, especially during evening hours. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson John Miller reminded motorists that stopping fully at stop signs and yielding when required can prevent such tragedies.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this heartbreaking accident,” Miller said. “We ask everyone to drive responsibly and keep our roads safe for all.”
Investigation ongoing
The FHP continues to investigate the cause of the initial failure to stop, reviewing vehicle data, driver statements and any possible road‑way conditions that may have contributed. No charges have been filed at this time.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information or dash‑cam footage to contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
