CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – On Saturday afternoon, two pickup trucks were involved in a near head‑on collision on State Road 44 east of West Chickasaw Lane. The crash occurred at approximately 4:50 p.m. on October 17, prompting a rapid response from Florida Highway Patrol and local emergency crews.
What happened
According to state troopers, a 45‑year‑old woman from Inglis was traveling eastbound in a GMC Sierra when she failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway. Her vehicle crossed the center line and entered the path of an 18‑year‑old man from Citrus Springs who was driving a Ford F‑250 westbound.
The two pickups struck each other almost head‑on. First‑responders treated both drivers at the scene and determined that their injuries were not life‑threatening. Both were then transported to nearby hospitals for further evaluation.
Response and investigation
Florida Highway Patrol officers remained on the scene to conduct a preliminary investigation. No citations or charges have been announced at this time, and the drivers’ names have not been released pending notification of family members.
Authorities reminded motorists that State Road 44 includes several sharp curves and that reduced speeds and attentive driving are essential, especially in rural sections where visibility can change quickly.
Impact on traffic
Because of the collision, traffic was briefly slowed in both directions while crews cleared the wreckage and conducted safety checks. The Florida Highway Patrol advised drivers to use alternate routes, such as County Road 39 or the nearby I‑75 corridor, until normal flow resumed.
Local residents expressed concern over the safety of the curve where the crash occurred. Some have called for additional signage or road‑improvement measures, though no official plan has been announced.
Community resources
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could aid the investigation is encouraged to contact the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office at (352) 555‑1234.
For families dealing with the aftermath of vehicle accidents, the Florida Department of Health provides resources on trauma counseling and medical follow‑up. Information can be found on the department’s website or by calling the toll‑free helpline at 1‑800‑555‑HELP.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
