Alachua Co., FL – One Killed, Three Hurt in Head-On Crash on CR 235
Alachua County, FL (May 2, 2025) – A deadly head-on crash claimed the life of a 61-year-old man and left three others seriously injured on Sunday night along County Road 235, between Newberry and Alachua.
Jessica Harwell, one of the victims, was traveling with her 14-year-old daughter and her stepfather when the crash occurred. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, a car attempted to illegally pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone. It crossed the double yellow line and slammed head-on into Harwell’s SUV, resulting in catastrophic injuries for all involved. Harwell recounted the harrowing moment, saying they were heading uphill toward Alachua when the oncoming car veered into their lane from behind a truck.
Harwell’s 61-year-old stepfather died from his injuries at the scene. Harwell and her teenage daughter sustained serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital for further treatment. The driver of the passing vehicle was also seriously injured. The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate and has not yet released the identities of all parties involved.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased vicitm. We also hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Head-On Collisions in Florida
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes that occur on Florida’s roads. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, thousands of head-on crashes happen each year—many resulting in fatalities or life-altering injuries. These crashes are especially common on two-lane rural highways with limited visibility and fewer barriers.
The aftermath of a head-on collision can involve multiple types of injuries and long recovery periods. Here are some common injuries suffered in these crashes:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The force of a head-on impact can cause the brain to slam against the skull, resulting in a concussion or more severe brain injury. These injuries can lead to memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and permanent cognitive challenges.
- Chest and Internal Injuries: Seat belts and airbags help save lives but can also cause blunt force trauma to the chest area. Victims may suffer broken ribs or damage to organs such as the heart, lungs, or liver.
- Lower Limb Fractures: Due to the positioning of the driver and front-seat passengers, the legs are often crushed or severely injured during a frontal impact. Recovery may include surgery, physical therapy, and extended time away from work.
- Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, survivors of head-on collisions often endure emotional scars. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are all common and can affect long-term quality of life.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a head-on crash, speaking with an Alachua County wrongful death attorney should be a top priority. An attorney can help gather vital evidence, evaluate the accident scene, and work with medical experts to build a case for compensation. In situations involving wrongful death or serious injury, legal support can make all the difference in securing justice and accountability.
At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano P.A., we offer free consultations and are prepared to fight for you. Call our team at 352-372-7777 to get started. Our Alachua County car accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims and their families recover financially and emotionally. We understand how overwhelming these situations can be, and we will support you through each step. We handle the legal challenges so you can focus on healing. Let us help you move forward with the care and attention your case deserves.
Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Our team of writers compiles accident news reports using information from various reliable sources, including local news outlets, police reports, social media updates, and eyewitness accounts of incidents occurring in Alachua, Union, Levy, and Gilchrist counties. While we strive for accuracy, our writers do not independently verify every detail in these reports. If you notice any information that may be incorrect, please reach out to Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., immediately so we can make the necessary corrections. We are committed to promptly removing any post upon request.
Disclaimer: This post is solely for informational purposes and is not intended as a solicitation for business. The content presented here should not be interpreted as medical or legal advice. Please note that the photo featured in this post is a stock image and does not depict the actual accident scene.
