5-Year-Old, 21-Year-Old From Bridgeport Die In Florida Crash: Report

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Nine people, including a 5-year-old and a 21-year-old from Bridgeport, died in a one-vehicle crash Monday night in Belle Glade, Florida, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and media reports.

"Last night in Belle Glade, a tragic crash occurred at the 5800 Block of Hatton Highway, resulting in multiple fatalities," Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office wrote on Facebook. "Tragically, Fire Rescue confirmed 4 victims were pronounced deceased on the scene, and 6 were transported to a local hospital where 5 additional victims passed away. We have one survivor for a total of 10 victims. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families during this heartbreaking incident."

The Bridgeport residents and the other victims were members of the family of a Bridgeport Public Schools employee, according to Mayor Joseph Ganim and Schools Superintendent Dr. Carmela Levy-David.

"It is with a heavy heart that I share the devastating news that one of our cherished custodial staff members has suffered an unimaginable loss," Levy-David said in a statement. "Nine members of their family were tragically killed in a car accident out of state. On behalf of the entire Bridgeport Public Schools community, I extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to our colleague and their family during this incredibly challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they navigate through this profound grief. We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of our staff member and their family. In moments like these, it is crucial to provide them the space and time they need to mourn and heal. Bridgeport Public Schools is committed to supporting our employee in every possible way. We are here to offer any assistance and comfort they may need during this period. Together, as a community, we stand with our colleague, offering our prayers, support, and love."

Mayor Ganim added, "On behalf of the City of Bridgeport, I want to express our deepest condolences to the custodial staff member who lost their family members during a tragic accident. The amount of grief that comes from losing a loved one is never easy, and unfortunately, this instance calls for an unparalleled amount of sorrow as multiple losses have taken place. All our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the custodial staff member and the rest of their family as they embark on a mournful journey toward healing. The City of Bridgeport echoes the sentiments made by Dr. Carmela-Levy David and we encourage all to allow the custodial staff member enough space to heal and grieve at this time."

The vehicle, a 2023 Ford Explorer, flipped over while veering off the road and became partially submerged upside down in a canal, West Palm Beach Patch reported.

Belle Glade is located on Palm Beach County's west side, south of Lake Okeechobee.

Five of the nine who died were reportedly juveniles. IDs of the victims were not immediately available.

The Palm Beach Post called the crash "the deadliest crash in Palm Beach County in recent memory."

WTNH-TV reported about the Bridgeport residents, and added that a total of 10 people were in the SUV at the time of the crash, which occurred at about 7:30 p.m.

The 56-year-old driver of the vehicle was among those who died, and the lone survivor, 26, who is reportedly listed in serious condition.

The crash remains under investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.