Pedestrian Killed in Crash on State Road 50 in Christmas, Florida
A 32-year-old Panama City man was killed late Thursday night after being struck by a pickup truck while walking across State Road 50 (Colonial Drive) in Christmas, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Details of the Crash
The fatal collision occurred around 10 p.m. Thursday on S.R. 50, just west of Hodges Boulevard, FHP reported.
According to the official crash report, the man was walking northbound when he entered the westbound lanes of Colonial Drive and stepped into the direct path of an oncoming pickup truck.
The truck, driven by a 20-year-old Orlando man, struck the pedestrian. Troopers noted that the man was not in a marked crosswalk at the time of the crash.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the truck was not injured and remained at the site, cooperating fully with investigators.
Ongoing Investigation
FHP confirmed that the investigation remains active as troopers work to piece together the circumstances surrounding the crash. It has not yet been determined whether speed, lighting conditions, or other factors played a role.
Authorities have not released the name of the victim, pending notification of his family.
Safety Context
State Road 50, also known as Colonial Drive, is a busy corridor that stretches across Central Florida, including Orange County. Traffic safety advocates have long identified it as a high-risk roadway for pedestrians, especially in areas without crosswalks or pedestrian signals.
According to statewide crash data, pedestrian fatalities have risen in Florida in recent years, with many incidents occurring after dark when visibility is reduced. Officials consistently urge pedestrians to use crosswalks, sidewalks, and reflective clothing at night, while also reminding drivers to stay alert in pedestrian-heavy areas.
Community Impact
The town of Christmas, located east of Orlando, is a small community but sits along a heavily traveled stretch of Colonial Drive that connects major highways and commuter routes. Local residents have voiced concerns in the past about speeding and pedestrian safety along the corridor.
For now, the community is left grappling with another fatality on Florida’s roads, as investigators continue their work to determine exactly what led to Thursday night’s tragedy.
