An Everett couple was tragically killed in a traffic incident in Lakeland, Florida, in view of their seven-year-old daughter. Ronald Jeanbaptiste, 54, and Yanique Pierre, 46, were attempting to cross South Florida Avenue when they were struck by a vehicle, according to a report from Boston 25 News. The Lakeland Police Department confirmed that both parents were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident late Wednesday night.
Investigators on the scene suggested that the driver of the white Toyota Yaris, 22-year-old Rexyanna Honors of Lakeland, had a green light at the time of the crash. Witnesses reported to NBC Boston that Honors remained on the scene and "didn't show any signs of impairment." The couple was reportedly trying, unsuccessfully, to safely navigate the crosswalk when the collision occurred.
The couple's daughter was unharmed and has been placed with family members. Local authorities noted the proximity to a local hotel where the family was staying and emphasized that despite the hour, pedestrian traffic in the area is not uncommon. "The crosswalks are very marked and pronounced, and it's well-lit," Lakeland Police Officer Stephanie Kerr told WFLA, noting the area is a business district.
Lakeland Police Department has stated that the investigation into the accident is ongoing. Meanwhile, Traffic Crash Investigator Officer Travis Payne has been actively soliciting information retrospectively to piece together the events leading up to the crash. No charges have been filed as a result of the incident, and Honors did not receive any citations at the time. Local police described the fatal occurrence as an unfortunate event against the backdrop of a nearby hotel where the family had sought to experience respite, according to 7 News WHDH. The community, roughly 25 miles east of Tampa, has been left to ponder the fragility of life in the wake of this family's loss.
