Apopka, FL — A deadly crash involving a pickup truck filled with teenagers has left the Apopka community grieving after three teens were killed and three others seriously injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The devastating incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. Sunday near the intersection of Welch Road and Wekiwa Drive.
Officials say a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 17-year-old male, lost control while navigating a curve. The truck ran off the road, struck a tree, and overturned, resulting in one of the most heartbreaking crashes the area has seen in recent memory.
Details of the Victims
All six occupants of the vehicle were teenage males from Apopka. According to FHP, three passengers — two 17-year-old males and a 13-year-old male — were pronounced dead, two at the scene and one after being transported to a hospital.
The remaining three teens, ages 14, 15, and 17, were rushed to local hospitals with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators revealed that four of the passengers were not wearing seat belts, including a 17-year-old and a 13-year-old who died in the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the accident, including whether speed, driver error, or other factors played a role, as per the reports.
Community Devastated by the Loss
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Apopka community, especially among families, students, and educators connected to Apopka High School and Kelly Park School K–8, where the victims attended.
Melissa Byrd, Orange County School Board Member for District 7, expressed her condolences in an emotional post on social media Sunday evening.
“One of the hardest parts of being a school board member is when tragedy strikes and we lose one of our precious students.
Our Apopka and OCPS community suffered a devastating loss today when three of our students lost their lives in a tragic automobile accident in Apopka.
Please pray for Apopka High School and Kelly Park School K–8 as both these schools work through this loss. Hold your kids and loved ones tight showing your love for each other, every day.”
— Melissa Byrd, Orange County School Board Member, District 7
Her message resonated with parents and students across the district, many of whom gathered online to share memories, prayers, and messages of support for the victims’ families.
Investigation Ongoing
The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that the crash remains under investigation. Troopers are analyzing road conditions, vehicle data, and witness statements to determine what led to the loss of control.
Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims due to their ages, but the emotional toll on the Apopka community is evident.
Local officials are reminding drivers — especially young motorists — of the importance of seat belt use and safe driving, particularly during nighttime hours.
How should communities like Apopka help teens drive more safely and prevent tragedies like this in the future? Share your thoughts, condolences, and suggestions for safer roads in the comments below.
