JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- It was a tragic end for a man and woman on a morning meant to celebrate new beginnings.
New Year's hopes and dreams scattered across Atlantic Boulevard after a fatal accident. Police say two adults driving east on the roadway were killed instantly after their truck was struck by a station wagon and flipped multiple times. Ranze Nazareno was the first to call 911.
"It skidded on the median past the meridian going the opposite direction," he said. "I almost touched it pretty much and then the SUV started flipping. I am still in awe and I'm still jittery."
The driver of the station wagon survived, but was transported to Shands Jacksonville with minor injuries.
"He was definitely in agony, screaming. I felt bad," said Nazareno.
Police are still investigating the cause of the crash, but witnesses tell Action News the person driving the station wagon was driving recklessly at a fast pace.
A section of Atlantic Boulevard was shut down for nearly seven hours as crews cleaned up the crash.
Patrons at Jerry's Grill watched out their windows in horror mere minutes after ringing in the new year.
"It's just pretty sad that it happened on a fun night, you're supposed to have a good time," said bartender Tina Logan. "Somebody gets a little carried away speeding, driving recklessly and causing such a serious accident."
There is still no word as to whether the driver of the station wagon will be facing any charges.
