A Punta Gorda woman was killed in a crash on US-41 Monday morning, and the other driver, 23-year-old Devon Barber, faces criminal charges.
Investigators say Barber was in a Ford sedan traveling southbound in the center travel lane of US-41 around 2 a.m., approaching Olean Boulevard at a high speed. A Kia sedan driven by the 37-year-old woman from Punta Gorda was traveling southbound on US-41 directly in front of the Ford. Barber was unable to stop before rear-ending the Kia with his Ford.
The collision sent the Kia off US-41, onto the grassy shoulder. The Ford was redirected into the northbound travel lanes of US-41.
The woman was pronounced dead at the scene by Charlotte County emergency medical services.
Barber was arrested and taken to the Charlotte County Jail. He faces three counts of property damage, one count of vehicular homicide and one count of DUI manslaughter.
Barber’s arrest page lists him as a U.S. Navy engineer.
FHP says Barber was driving at double the speed limit leading up to the crash, closing in on 100 mph.
“The consequences of this crash are devastating to two families,” Trooper Ken Watson said. “The family of the person who was killed, and the family of the person who is now facing a lot of prison time. There’s only victims in this.”
Troopers say, had this been later in the day, the crash could have killed more.
- Jones Loop Road and Taylor Road: Previous accidents at this intersection underscore the critical nature of certain hazards that plague the location. The inherent danger stems from factors such as compromised visibility during nighttime or adverse weather conditions, substantial traffic congestion, and insufficient or obstructed signage. The intricacies of roadway design, including the presence of multiple lanes, turn lanes, and the proximity of commercial establishments, can compound driver confusion, exacerbating the risk of accidents. It is essential to address these shortcomings in infrastructure and traffic light systems to enhance safety and reduce collisions at this intersection.
- US-41 and Burnt Store Road: This intersection, a notorious hotbed of accidents, harbors a perilous mix of high-speed traffic, elusive signage, and speeding turning vehicles. Its confusing layout puts drivers in a maze of lanes and turns, leaving them vulnerable to mishaps and accidents.
- US-41 and Aqui Esta Drive: This intersection has experienced a high number of accidents over the years. Factors contributing to its danger include heavy traffic volumes, poor visibility, and complex traffic patterns. The presence of multiple lanes and turn lanes can make it challenging for drivers to navigate the intersection safely and predict the movements of other vehicles, leading to collisions.
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