JEFFERSON COUNTY, Fla. (AMERICAN WATCH) – A tragic crash in Jefferson County on Thursday evening claimed the life of a woman from Valdosta and left a male passenger with serious injuries, according to a statement released by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) on Friday.
The collision occurred shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Interstate 10 near mile marker 217. At the time of the accident, a Chevrolet SUV was traveling westbound in the area. The vehicle was being driven by a 49-year-old woman from Valdosta, Georgia.
According to FHP, the woman lost control of the SUV for reasons that have not yet been determined. As a result, the vehicle veered off the roadway and crashed into a tree. The impact of the crash was severe, and the driver was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel.
The passenger in the SUV, identified as a 37-year-old man from Port Saint Joe, Florida, sustained serious injuries in the crash. He was transported by first responders to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for treatment.
FHP confirmed that both individuals’ families have been notified. The cause of the crash remains under investigation as officials work to determine what may have led to the driver losing control of the vehicle.
The Florida Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and Jefferson County Fire Rescue. These agencies helped manage the emergency response and supported efforts to treat the injured passenger and secure the crash site.
At this time, authorities have not released the names of the driver or the passenger involved in the crash. No other vehicles were reported to be involved, and no further injuries were noted.
The fatal crash underscores the dangers of unexpected incidents on high-speed highways like I-10 and serves as a reminder for drivers to remain cautious and alert while traveling. Investigators are expected to analyze evidence from the scene and the vehicle itself to determine whether speed, mechanical issues, or other factors contributed to the accident.
This incident adds to the growing number of traffic fatalities reported in the region this year. Law enforcement and traffic safety officials continue to stress the importance of wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions, and maintaining control—especially on busy interstate roadways.
As of now, the 37-year-old passenger remains under medical care, and updates regarding his condition may follow. The Florida Highway Patrol will likely release more details once their investigation progresses.
The community of Valdosta, as well as Port Saint Joe, has been impacted by this sudden loss and injury, with friends and loved ones mourning the tragedy. Support and condolences have begun to reach out to the families affected as they process the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
