Tragic Crash Claims Nine Lives as Overloaded SUV Plunges
into Florida Canal
In a devastating accident in South Florida, nine people lost
their lives, and one person was seriously injured when an overloaded SUV lost
control and plunged into a canal. The tragic incident occurred on Hatton
Highway near Belle Glade at around 7:30 p.m. on Monday, as the 2023 Ford
Explorer, carrying 10 occupants, failed to navigate a sharp turn on the
two-lane road. The SUV hit a guardrail before flipping over and landing upside
down in the canal that runs parallel to the highway.
Authorities, including the Palm Beach County Sheriff's
Office and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have launched an
investigation into the crash. They confirmed that the accident was not related
to the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, which had struck Florida as a Category
1 hurricane earlier that day.
First responders from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue found
the vehicle partially submerged and upside down upon arrival. Four victims were
pronounced dead at the scene, while five others, including the female driver,
succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. A 26-year-old male passenger was
rescued and remains in serious condition.
The 2023 Ford Explorer, which has a maximum seating capacity
of seven, was significantly overloaded at the time of the crash. Authorities
have not yet released the identities or ages of the victims, but reports
indicate that both adults and children were among the deceased.
"This is one of the most difficult scenes I've been on
in my 20 years with the department," said Fire Rescue Captain Tom Reyes.
The sheriff's office extended their condolences, stating,
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this heartbreaking
incident." Belle Glade is located just south of Lake Okeechobee,
approximately 45 miles west of West Palm Beach.
