Woman Dies After Hit-and-Run Crash Involving Alligator on I-95 Near Titusville

A 20-year-old woman from Palm Bay died Sunday night after a crash on Interstate 95 near Titusville, Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officials confirmed. The incident occurred around 11:52 p.m. in the southbound lanes near mile marker 214. A 58-year-old man driving a 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-350 hit an alligator in the center lane, causing his car to strike the animal’s front left side. Moments later, the woman was approaching in a 2004 Toyota Tacoma. She swerved to avoid the Mercedes, lost control, and her truck overturned. The woman was ejected into the center lane and struck by an unidentified vehicle that fled the scene. She was pronounced dead at the crash site. The Mercedes driver was not injured and remained at the scene. FHP has not released details about the vehicle that struck the woman.

The crash highlights the dangers of wildlife on Florida highways. Alligators are common in the area, but collisions are rare. Investigators said the woman was not wearing a seat belt, which likely contributed to her being ejected from the truck. The Mercedes driver reported seeing the alligator but could not avoid it. FHP is treating the incident as a hit-and-run and is urging witnesses to come forward. The agency has not yet identified the suspect vehicle.

FHP officials emphasized the importance of wearing seat belts and remaining alert while driving, especially in areas near wetlands and waterways where alligators are prevalent. The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact FHP by dialing *347 or calling Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. The woman’s family has not been identified, and no further details about her were released.

This is the second major alligator-related incident on I-95 in Brevard County this year. FHP said no charges have been filed in this case yet, but the agency is reviewing traffic camera footage and speaking with nearby residents. The crash has drawn attention from local drivers, who are urging officials to consider additional safety measures for wildlife crossings in the area.