Mims, Florida – A fatal crash on Interstate 95 in Brevard County claimed one life and left another person seriously injured Monday morning, prompting hours-long traffic disruptions and an ongoing investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Early Morning Collision Shuts Down Northbound I-95
The crash occurred just after 9 a.m. on Monday in the northbound lanes of I-95 near mile marker 228, close to the community of Mims, according to state troopers. Authorities say the collision involved a semitruck with a trailer and a CMTI MOT truck, which was actively assisting with a separate roadway emergency at the time of impact.
Troopers responded quickly to reports of a serious crash and discovered extensive damage to both vehicles upon arrival.
Work Truck Struck While Responding to Vehicle Fire
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the CMTI MOT truck was parked in the outside northbound lane with its arrow board and emergency lights activated. The truck was positioned to assist with a vehicle fire ahead, serving as a warning and safety buffer for approaching traffic.
Investigators say a semitruck towing a trailer failed to stop in time and struck the rear of the CMTI truck. The force of the collision caused both vehicles to veer toward the shoulder, where they collided with the outside guardrail.
The impact resulted in catastrophic consequences for the occupants of the work truck.
Driver Killed, Passenger Suffers Serious Injuries
The driver of the CMTI truck was pronounced dead at the scene, troopers confirmed. Officials have not yet released the victim’s name or age, pending notification of next of kin.
A passenger inside the same truck, identified as a 42-year-old man from St. Cloud, was rushed to a nearby hospital. Authorities described his injuries as serious, though his current condition has not been publicly updated.
No information has been released regarding injuries to the semitruck driver.
Major Traffic Disruptions Lasted for Hours
Following the crash, all northbound lanes of I-95 were shut down, creating significant traffic delays throughout the area. Emergency crews, troopers, and cleanup teams remained on scene for several hours to investigate the crash, clear debris, and remove the damaged vehicles.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., the inside and center lanes were reopened, allowing traffic to slowly resume. However, troopers warned that delays were still expected, especially during the afternoon commute.
Drivers traveling through Brevard County were urged to use alternate routes when possible and remain alert for emergency personnel working along the roadway.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation. Troopers are working to determine the exact cause of the collision, including whether speed, distraction, or failure to observe roadway warnings played a role.
Authorities will also review whether all required traffic control and safety measures were properly in place during the initial vehicle fire response.
At this time, no charges have been announced, and investigators emphasized that all findings are preliminary.
Renewed Concerns Over Roadside Worker Safety
Monday’s deadly crash highlights the ongoing dangers faced by roadside workers and emergency responders, particularly on high-speed interstates like I-95. Even with warning lights, arrow boards, and traffic control devices activated, roadside crews remain vulnerable to passing traffic.
State officials continue to remind drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency or work vehicles, as required under Florida’s Move Over Law.
A Tragic Reminder for Drivers
The loss of life in this incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly routine roadway operations can turn deadly. Authorities urge motorists to remain attentive, reduce speed in work zones, and be prepared for sudden traffic changes.
As the investigation continues, officials hope the findings will help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Should penalties be increased for drivers who fail to slow down or move over for roadside workers? Have you experienced close calls on busy highways like I-95?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
