A 61-year-old Palatka man lost his life in a tragic incident when a 20-year-old driver struck him in Putnam County this past Wednesday. The collision occurred on St. Johns Avenue near Oliver Street around 6 p.m., the man was ostensibly at the roadside before stepping onto the road, which led to the fatal accident, as reported by Action News Jax.
The young driver from Palatka was heading east when the collision occurred. The Florida Highway Patrol believes the pedestrian suddenly moved from a safe spot into the path of the vehicle, leading to the tragic event, according to First Coast News. Emergency services arrived at the scene, and it was quickly confirmed that the pedestrian had died from his injuries, according to a report from WCJB.
The driver was unharmed in the crash, but the psychological impact is still being assessed. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the details, including the driver's speed, the pedestrian's intentions, and the broader circumstances behind the incident, according to Action News Jax.