Two pedestrian crashes on Monday
BY JENNIFER CABRERA
Updated with information about both victims.
On Monday, January 27 at 4:05 p.m., Gainesville Police Department (GPD) officers responded to a report of a vehicle crash in the 4100 block of SW 20th Avenue. The preliminary investigation found that a vehicle traveling west on SW 20th Avenue struck a pedestrian who was walking west in the bicycle lane. The pedestrian is a 16-year-old male and was transported to UF Health at Shands with life-threatening injuries. Traffic Homicide Investigators responded and are continuing their investigation. The determination of fault or decision to file charges are pending the outcome of the on-going investigation. The pedestrian’s medical condition was last reported as critical.
Also on Monday, January 27 at 8:19 p.m., GPD officers responded to a report of a vehicle crash at the intersection of SE 25th Street and East University Avenue. The preliminary investigation revealed that a 20-year-old female was crossing E. University Avenue in the crosswalk when a vehicle traveling east struck her. The pedestrian had life-threatening injuries and was transported to UF Health at Shands for medical treatment. Traffic Homicide Investigators responded and are continuing their investigation. The determination of fault or decision to file charges are pending the outcome of the on-going investigation. The pedestrian’s medical condition was last reported as critical.
The Alligator is reporting that the victim is Denise Griffiths, a 21-year-old English language and literature senior at the University of Florida. There is also a GoFundMe page to help provide financial assistance to her family. As of Wednesday afternoon, $4,847 of the $15,000 goal has been raised.
The Gainesville Sun is reporting that the 16-year-old male victim has died of his injuries. He still has not been identified.