A fatal Turnpike collision near Fort Pierce claimed three lives earlier this week after a semi-truck attempted a U-turn and was struck by a minivan, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). The incident closely resembles the semi-truck U-turn crash that left three dead on the Florida Turnpike in Fort Pierce earlier this year.

Turnpike Collision Details Released by Authorities

The deadly crash occurred around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, just outside Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office. FHP investigators reported that a tractor-trailer was traveling northbound on Florida’s Turnpike when its driver attempted a U-turn using an “Official Use Only” lane.

The semi-truck, occupied by two men from California, moved from the outside northbound lane, crossed all northbound lanes, and entered the restricted median area. As the truck maneuvered into the path of traffic, a 2015 Chrysler Town & Country minivan approached in the inside lane.

Minivan Collides With Tractor-Trailer During U-Turn

The minivan’s driver, a 30-year-old from Florida City, tried to avoid the collision but struck the side of the trailer. The impact caused the minivan to become wedged under the semi-trailer. Both passengers in the minivan—a 37-year-old woman from Pompano Beach and a 54-year-old man from Miami—died at the scene.

The driver of the minivan was airlifted to a nearby hospital but died from injuries a few hours later. The two men in the tractor-trailer were not injured. Names of those involved have not been released by authorities. This tragic event is one of several deadly crashes on the Florida Turnpike that have claimed lives in Port St. Lucie in recent months.

Investigation and Road Closures in St. Lucie County

After the Turnpike collision, all northbound lanes near the crash site were closed to allow for a thorough traffic homicide investigation. The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office assisted FHP at the scene.

Authorities have not indicated whether charges are pending or if further details will be released. The crash remains under investigation as officials work to determine the sequence of events and contributing factors. In a similar vein, authorities are still investigating a fatal crash on Interstate 95 in Port St. Lucie that recently made headlines.

Turnpike Safety and Recent Incidents

Florida’s Turnpike is a major transportation route through the Treasure Coast and often sees heavy commercial and passenger vehicle traffic. U-turns in “Official Use Only” lanes are strictly regulated and generally prohibited for non-authorized vehicles.

This Turnpike collision highlights ongoing concerns about safety on high-speed highways, especially when large vehicles attempt maneuvers not intended for public use. Law enforcement agencies continue to urge all drivers to follow posted regulations and exercise caution.

Role of Emergency Responders

First responders from both the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office and FHP worked quickly to secure the scene, provide medical assistance, and investigate the cause of the crash. Helicopter transport was used in an attempt to save the minivan driver.

Traffic Impact and Community Response

The closure of northbound lanes on the Turnpike caused significant delays for motorists in the Fort Pierce area. Local residents and commuters expressed concern about the frequency of serious accidents on this stretch of highway.

• Location: Northbound Florida’s Turnpike, near Fort Pierce
• Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
• Vehicles Involved: Semi-truck (tractor-trailer), Chrysler Town & Country minivan
• Fatalities: Three (all occupants of the minivan)
• Agencies Responding: Florida Highway Patrol, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office

Frequently Asked Questions About Turnpike Collision Near Fort Pierce

What happened during the Turnpike collision near Fort Pierce?

A semi-truck attempted a U-turn using an “Official Use Only” lane on Florida’s Turnpike and was struck by a minivan, resulting in three deaths.

How many people died in the Fort Pierce Turnpike accident?

Three people died in the crash, all of whom were in the minivan involved in the collision.

Are U-turns allowed on Florida’s Turnpike?

U-turns are only allowed in designated “Official Use Only” lanes for authorized vehicles. Unauthorized U-turns are prohibited and can be dangerous.

Where did the Turnpike collision occur in St. Lucie County?

The crash happened on the northbound lanes of Florida’s Turnpike, just outside Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County.

Can you find out the names of those involved in the Turnpike crash?

The Florida Highway Patrol has not released the names of the victims or the semi-truck driver at this time.

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