Sunrise, Florida — A fatal early-morning crash on Florida’s Turnpike claimed the life of a Fort Lauderdale man and sent two others to the hospital, forcing the closure of all northbound lanes for several hours as investigators worked to reconstruct the scene.
The two-vehicle collision occurred shortly after 2 a.m. Monday near Mile Marker 59, just north of Sunrise Boulevard, according to authorities. The crash involved a 2015 BMW 428i and a 2025 Nissan Rogue, both traveling northbound on the Turnpike at the time of the incident.
What Investigators Say Happened
According to preliminary findings, the BMW was traveling in the outside northbound lane when it approached the Nissan Rogue, which was moving ahead at a slower speed. Investigators said the BMW driver was unable to avoid the Nissan, and the front of the BMW struck the rear of the SUV.
The force of the collision caused both vehicles to lose control. Authorities said the Nissan veered onto the outside shoulder, struck a guardrail, and then rolled over, eventually coming to rest on its roof in the outside center lane, still facing northbound.
The BMW, meanwhile, left the roadway entirely and came to rest in a ditch off the outside shoulder, investigators said.
Victims Identified by Authorities
Officials confirmed that a 31-year-old man from Fort Lauderdale, who was an occupant of the Nissan Rogue, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Nissan, identified as a 67-year-old Fort Lauderdale man, was transported to Broward Health Medical Center for treatment. Authorities did not immediately release details about the extent of his injuries.
The driver of the BMW, a 26-year-old woman from Pembroke Pines, was also taken to a hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Her condition was not disclosed.
Turnpike Closure and Traffic Impacts
Following the crash, all northbound lanes of Florida’s Turnpike were temporarily shut down, creating major traffic disruptions during the early morning hours.
Drivers were forced to exit at Sunrise Boulevard, and traffic was diverted for several hours while emergency responders cleared debris, assisted victims, and documented the crash scene.
Authorities advised motorists to avoid Florida’s Turnpike between Sunrise Boulevard and Commercial Boulevard and instead use Interstate 95 or U.S. 1 as alternate routes during the closure.
By mid-morning, lanes were gradually reopened once the investigation and cleanup were completed.
Ongoing Investigation Into the Crash
The incident remains under investigation as traffic homicide investigators continue reviewing evidence to determine contributing factors.
Authorities are examining:
- Vehicle speed and spacing
- Roadway conditions at the time of the crash
- Possible driver distraction or impairment
- Event data recorders and physical evidence
Officials have not announced whether charges will be filed, and no citations were immediately reported.
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Investigators emphasized that findings remain preliminary and that final conclusions will depend on the full reconstruction analysis.
Safety Reminder for Overnight Driving
Officials used the incident to remind drivers about the increased risks of overnight and early-morning driving, when visibility is reduced and reaction times may be slower.
Rear-end collisions at highway speeds can be especially deadly, particularly when speed differences between vehicles are significant. Authorities urge drivers to maintain safe following distances and remain alert, especially on high-speed toll roads like Florida’s Turnpike.
What Comes Next
The investigation is expected to continue as authorities notify next of kin and complete forensic analysis. Additional updates may be released once the review is finalized.
In the meantime, officials continue urging drivers to follow posted speed limits, avoid distractions, and exercise caution when approaching slower-moving vehicles.
What are your thoughts on overnight highway safety and traffic enforcement on major toll roads? Share your perspective in the comments.
