Fatal Car Crash on Florida's Turnpike Near Mile Marker 252 on October 23, 2026

Six people traveling in a Chevrolet Traverse died after a collision on Florida's Turnpike near mile marker 252 on Friday night, October 23, 2026. Three of those killed were adult siblings taking their first trip together as siblings, their mother told FOX 35.

The Florida Highway Patrol said the crash happened around 9:30 p.m. in the northbound lanes. A Road Ranger assistance truck had been sent to a disabled box truck on the outside shoulder. Investigators said a truck was moving across the roadway when the 2023 Traverse struck it. Both vehicles left the road, and the SUV caught fire with six people trapped inside.

Marshall Clarke-Milton identified three of the victims as her children Charles, Jakara and Dalvena. She said the others included their significant others and a friend. The group was headed to Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights.

Clarke-Milton said she became concerned when she could not reach her children, then contacted officials after learning about the crash. She and their father, Charles Milton Sr., described the family's grief. Clarke-Milton also spoke about their granddaughter as a source of purpose as the family coped with the loss.

A witness told FHP that the SUV may have been speeding and traveling without headlights. The parents questioned that preliminary account. Clarke-Milton said investigators needed to examine vehicle data about speed and lighting before assigning responsibility. The witness account and the family's concerns were not final findings about the collision.

FHP said the investigation remained open and a crash report was expected within 10 days. The National Transportation Safety Board also announced an investigation. Its planned review included the roadside assistance driver's training and performance, the SUV driver's actions and speed, and the occupants' restraint use. The agency said its work would examine potential broader safety issues and prevention recommendations.

Reporting sources: fox35orlando.com. Reviewed and updated October 28, 2026.