Cocoa, FL – A tragic overnight accident claimed the life of a 16-year-old girl from Cocoa and left her 15-year-old sister with minor injuries after their van rolled over on State Road 520 early Thursday, August 21, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Early Morning Crash Near Cressa Circle
The crash occurred around 3:40 a.m. on SR 520 near Cressa Circle, when the 16-year-old driver reportedly lost control of the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan. FHP investigators say the vehicle, which was traveling eastbound at a high speed, veered off the road, flipped multiple times across the westbound lanes, and finally struck a guardrail.
The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her 15-year-old sister, who was buckled in, sustained minor injuries and survived the violent crash.
Teens Were Returning to Grandparents’ Home
Authorities believe the teens were heading back to their grandparents’ residence at the time of the crash. Their mother reportedly did not have custody, and both girls had been staying with their grandparents in Cocoa. According to FHP Trooper Migdalisis Garcia, the grandparents were unaware the girls had left the home, and their destination before the incident remains unknown.
“We’re trying to figure that out,” Garcia told Florida Today. “It looks like they were on their way home.”
The exact cause of the crash is still being investigated, though excessive speed and lack of seatbelt use have been confirmed factors.
Road Closure and Traffic Disruption
The crash led to a temporary shutdown of all westbound lanes on State Road 520 near Cressa Circle, which reopened around 6 a.m. Drivers were advised to take alternate routes during the morning commute.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Reminder
FHP troopers continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the accident. The incident highlights a painful reminder of the importance of seatbelt safety, curfew awareness, and supervised driving, especially among teen drivers.
As the Cocoa community grieves this devastating loss, officials are urging parents and guardians to communicate openly with teens about safe driving habits and to monitor their whereabouts during nighttime hours.
What are your thoughts on improving teen driving safety in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
