HIGHLANDS COUNTY, Fla. — A Michigan man was killed in a Highlands County crash on Saturday after he allegedly drive into the path of a tractor trailer, authorities said.
The 88-year-old victim was driving a pick-up truck southbound on County Road 721, approaching the intersection of State Road 70.
The semi-truck, driven by a 58-year-old Mayo, Fla. Man, was traveling westbound on State Road 70, approaching C.R. 721
According to a Florida Highway Patrol report, the victim traveled into the oncoming northbound lane to go around a vehicle that was stopped at a stop sign on C.R. 721 at the intersection of S.R. 70. When he did so, the pickup truck drove into the direct path of the semi-truck and was struck on the left side, FHP officials said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The semi-truck driver was not injured.
The crash remains under investigation.
"It's such a tradition and blessing to be able to do this."
While today may be the start of the 119th annual Epiphany celebration in Tarpon Springs, on Sunday, the sponge docks were packed for the traditional blessing of the fleet. ABC Action News reporter Susan El Khoury spoke to participants and spectators alike about the meaning behind the celebrations.
