A deadly crash on Interstate 95 in Florida appears to have started with an alligator in the roadway and ended with a 20-year-old woman losing her life after her pickup overturned and another driver left the scene, WFTV reported.
The incident was a sobering reminder that when major highways cut through wildlife habitat, both animals and people can suffer the consequences.
Here's what to know
Florida Highway Patrol indicated that the fatal wreck happened on Aug. 30 at about 11:52 p.m. near mile marker 214 in Titusville.
It claimed the life of a 20-year-old woman from Palm Bay.
Investigators said the chain of events began when a 58-year-old man in a 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-350, traveling in the center lane, could not avoid an alligator in the road.
The front left side of his car hit the animal.
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Troopers explained that the woman was approaching from behind in a 2004 Toyota Tacoma when she swerved to avoid the Mercedes and lost control of the pickup.
Her truck overturned, throwing her into the center lane. Investigators said she was not wearing a seat belt.
Authorities added that an unidentified southbound vehicle then struck her and continued on.
She died at the scene, while the Mercedes driver stayed there and was not injured.
What can be done?
Troopers said the investigation remains active.
They asked anyone with information about the vehicle spotted leaving the scene to call the Florida Highway Patrol at *347 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.
Where can I learn more?
This crash started with an alligator on I-95, but it's far from the only serious alligator-related incident in Florida.
These articles offer more context on the risks the animals pose across the state, from attacks to research on avoiding encounters.
• In Florida, bite marks identified a 12-foot alligator after a woman's fatal river attack.
• In Florida, a backyard angler fought off an alligator by gouging its eyes.
• Researchers found many bites can be prevented when people avoid risky alligator encounters.
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