Fatal Accident Report: Collision at Okeechobee Boulevard and North Jog Road

On the night of October 8, 2024, a fatal accident occurred at the intersection of Okeechobee Boulevard and North Jog Road in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident involving two vehicles.

Details about the incident

• Time of incident: 11:27 p.m
• Location: Okeechobee Boulevard and North Jog Road, West Palm Beach, Florida
• Case number: 24105958
• Sector: 3-24

Vehicles involved

• Vehicle 1:
  • Driver: Vanessa Renee Owens (Date of Birth: September 27, 1991)
  • Vehicle make/model: 2012 Buick Verano
  • Label: 91CHBX
  • Condition: Florida
  • Driver information: Female, African American
  • Injuries: Fatal (pronounced dead at the scene)
  • Safety equipment: None
• Vehicle 2:
  • Driver: James Hurle Hillman (Date of Birth: July 1, 1963)
  • Vehicle make/model: 2023 Volvo VNR
  • Label: AN03TZ
  • Condition: Florida
  • Driver information: Male, Caucasian
  • Injuries: None
  • Safety equipment: Seatbelt

Sequence of events

The accident occurred when Vehicle 1driven by Vanessa Renee Owens, was traveling eastbound on Okeechobee Boulevard. Owens failed to stop at a red light as he approached North Jog Road. At the same time, Vehicle 2driven by James Hurle Hillman, was traveling south on North Jog Road and entered the intersection with a green signal.

The impact occurred when Vehicle 1 collided with the passenger side of Vehicle 2’s trailer between the third and fourth axles. Due to the force of the impact, Vehicle 1 spun counterclockwise and came to a stop facing north at the intersection. Vehicle 2 came to a controlled stop south of the intersection.

Investigations and prosecutions

The incident remains under investigation and no charges have been filed at this time. Investigating Officer Anthony Tejeda (ID: 31814) is handling the case.

This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the importance of following traffic lights and practicing safe driving habits. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will continue its investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.

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