Boynton Beach, FL – Southbound lanes on Florida’s Turnpike experienced significant disruption Tuesday morning following a deadly crash involving a Mercedes-Benz C63 coupe and a tractor-trailer. The incident, which occurred near the Boynton Beach Boulevard exit, resulted in complete closure of the southbound lanes and substantial traffic congestion.
According to reports from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR), the collision was classified as an underrun crash, where the 2020 silver Mercedes-Benz C63 coupe collided with the rear of the tractor-trailer, becoming wedged underneath. The severity of the impact caused catastrophic damage to the Mercedes vehicle.
Florida 511 trafficWatch reported the incident occurred around 11:23 a.m. past exit 86 for S.R. 804, labeling it a major crash. Emergency responders, including firefighters and paramedics, arrived at the scene to provide assistance.
Tragically, the driver of the Mercedes-Benz coupe was pronounced dead at the scene by PBCFR paramedics. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained injuries and was transported to Delray Medical Center for treatment. The extent of their injuries remains unclear at this time.
Preliminary investigations by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) indicate that the Mercedes driver was allegedly speeding and driving on the inside paved shoulder of the Turnpike. The FHP report suggests that the Mercedes was rapidly approaching the tractor-trailer, which was traveling in the center lane. The driver of the Mercedes reportedly lost control of the vehicle, veering from the shoulder into the center lane and colliding with the rear of the trailer. The height difference between the vehicles led to the Mercedes becoming trapped underneath the trailer in the underrun collision.
The aftermath of the accident caused significant traffic delays in the Boynton Beach area. Traffic cameras showed substantial congestion as first responders worked to manage the scene and conduct investigations. Southbound lanes of Florida’s Turnpike remained closed as of 2:34 p.m., according to PBCFR, causing considerable disruption for commuters and travelers.
Motorists were advised to expect continued delays and seek alternative routes to avoid the area while authorities cleared the scene and investigated the fatal Mercedes Tractor Trailer crash. Further updates are expected from FHP as their investigation progresses.
