Osceola County, FL – A tragic Thanksgiving Day crash in Osceola County claimed the life of an 18-year-old Georgia woman and left five others seriously injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The deadly chain-reaction collision occurred late Thursday night, turning a holiday evening into a devastating scene for multiple families.
Troopers say the violent DUI crash happened around 11:40 p.m. on State Road 538 near Sienna Boulevard, involving three vehicles, including the SUV carrying the teenage victim.
DUI Driver Accused of Triggering Multi-Vehicle Crash
Investigators identified Eddy Edmond, 44, of Davenport, as the driver responsible for the fatal crash. According to the FHP report, Edmond was driving a 2004 Acura MDX westbound on S.R. 538 when he rear-ended a 2025 Hyundai Tucson that was stopped ahead of him on the roadway.
The force of the impact caused the Hyundai to flip over, sending it crashing into a 2015 Ford F-150 in front of it. Troopers say Edmond suffered minor injuries but was alert at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that Edmond was arrested shortly afterward on a charge of DUI manslaughter and booked into the Osceola County Jail.
Young Passenger Dies, Others Seriously Injured
Inside the overturned Hyundai was an 18-year-old woman from Georgia, who was riding as a passenger. She was rushed to Osceola Regional Medical Center, where she was tragically pronounced dead, the FHP said.
The driver of the Hyundai, identified as a 34-year-old woman from Kissimmee, suffered serious injuries along with four additional passengers who were also riding in the SUV. Troopers noted that all five survivors from the vehicle sustained significant trauma.
The driver of the Ford pickup, a 40-year-old man from Apopka, was not injured, according to officials, as per ClickOrlando.
Investigation Ongoing as Community Awaits Answers
Troopers have not released the names of the injured or the deceased, and additional details surrounding the cause and circumstances of the crash are still being investigated.
The incident marks yet another tragic example of impaired driving turning into a deadly decision. Thanksgiving weekend is historically one of the most dangerous times for DUI-related crashes, according to national traffic statistics — a pattern heartbreakingly repeated here in Osceola County.
Authorities have not yet indicated whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses.
Your Thoughts Matter
This heartbreaking crash has shaken families during what should have been a day of celebration.
How do you think communities can better prevent DUI tragedies like this? Should penalties for DUI manslaughter be even harsher?
Share your thoughts in the comments — your voice helps drive the conversation forward.
