A Stuart teen was killed and a passenger was seriously injured after their SUV plunged into a ditch at the end of Horizon Avenue, according to the
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
The crash occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on September 7, 2025, in
Stuart, Florida.
Incident Overview
According to a preliminary FHP report, a 19-year-old man was driving an SUV southbound on Horizon Avenue when he reached a dead-end.
The SUV failed to stop, continued forward, and went off the roadway, down an embankment, and into a ditch.
The driver was pronounced dead at the scene, and the passenger sustained serious injuries.
Details of the Stuart SUV Ditch Crash
Troopers said the teen driver died at the scene. A 30-year-old woman who was the passenger suffered multiple broken bones and
was transported to
HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital
in Fort Pierce, where she was listed in
stable condition.
Location & Roadway Conditions
The crash occurred on Horizon Avenue, a road that ends abruptly. An embankment and drainage ditch are located at the end of the roadway.
Such features can pose hazards at night or in low-visibility conditions.
Florida Highway Patrol Investigation
FHP is leading the investigation and is examining whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed to the crash.
The names of those involved have not been released pending notification of next of kin. No other vehicles were involved.
Emergency Response
First responders arrived quickly after the crash was reported. The passenger was extricated from the vehicle and taken to the hospital for treatment.
Community Safety
The incident has renewed conversations about nighttime driving safety on dead-end streets and poorly lit areas. Local officials and law enforcement urge drivers
to use caution and obey all traffic signs, especially in unfamiliar areas and during late-night hours.
Editor’s Note on Sourcing
Details in this story are based on a preliminary report from the Florida Highway Patrol and may be updated as additional verified information is released.
- Stuart teen killed in SUV crash at dead-end road
- 30-year-old passenger injured; hospitalized in stable condition
- Crash time: ~1:30 a.m., September 7, 2025
- Florida Highway Patrol investigation ongoing
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Stuart SUV ditch crash?
A 19-year-old driver reached the end of Horizon Avenue and, according to FHP’s preliminary report, did not stop before the roadway ended.
The SUV continued forward, went down an embankment, and entered a ditch. The driver died at the scene; the passenger was seriously injured.
How much has FHP released?
FHP has provided initial facts but has not released the names of the individuals. The investigation is still active.
Are dead-end roads a known risk at night?
Dead-end streets with limited lighting or abrupt endings can be hazardous, particularly at night or for drivers unfamiliar with the area.
Where are injured victims typically transported?
Many serious-injury patients in the Stuart area are taken to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, which serves the Treasure Coast region.
