Driver arrested for Highlands County crash that killed 13-year-old boy, injured 2 others
LAKE PLACID, Fla. - An 18-year-old involved in a deadly crash while speeding from the Florida Highway Patrol in Highlands County has been arrested.
The backstory:
On January 21, 2025, the Florida Highway Patrol tried to stop a 2021 Kia Forte for speeding on US 27 near Lake Henry Drive in Highlands County.
Troopers say instead of stopping, the Kia sped away.
While speeding from FHP, troopers say the Kia collided with the back of a 2012 Ford E350.
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Troopers say a 13-year-old boy in the Kia was taken to an area hospital with critical injuries and later died.
Deanthony Torres booking photo courtesy of the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office.
Two other passengers in the Kia, a 16-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl, were taken to an area hospital with injuries.
The driver of the Kia, who has since been identified as Deanthony Torres, 18, of Okeechobee, was taken to an area hospital. He was released on Wednesday and booked into the St. Lucie County Jail.
The driver of the Ford E350 was not injured in the crash.
What's next:
Torres is awaiting extradition back to Highlands County.
Torres has been charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child, aggravated fleeing to elude with serious injury or death, driving with a suspended license (serious injury or death) and two counts of attempted murder.
The Source: This story was written with information provided by the Florida Highway Patrol.
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