Update: Identities of Fatalities in Early-Morning Wreck Revealed

Update (3:29 p.m. EDT)

The Florida Highway Patrol has issued an official press release regarding the early morning car wreck at U.S. 301 and University Parkway.

The press release revealed the names of the two fatalities in the accident to be Taurius Markeith Peterson, 35, of Sarasota, and Heather Marie Roesler-Pando, 40, of Sarasota. Peterson was reported as operating the vehicle at the time of the accident, with Roesler-Pando riding as a passenger.

The car, a 2007 BMW 750 Li, was reportedly traveling northbound on U.S. 301 “at a high rate of speed,” according to the official release. It failed to slow down as it tried to turn right onto University, and it ended up cutting through the grass along the shoulder and crashing into the embankment leading up to nearby railroad tracks.

Due to its speed heading into the collision, the vehicle became airborne, and eventually the front side of the vehicle struck a railroad support pole. The vehicle remained airborne before striking another support pole in the paved median of the road, bringing the car to the ground.

Upon impact, the car reportedly became engulfed in flames.

The accident is still being investigated, and the report states it is still pending as to whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Our Original Post

ABC Suncoast affiliate WWSB-TV has reported new details regarding a fatal car wreck at the intersection of U.S. 301 and University Parkway early Tuesday morning.

Florida Highway Patrol told WWSB two people were killed in the accident. State troopers have reportedly not released the names of the victims, and no word has been given as to the cause of the accident, which remains under investigation.

The accident occurred at 2:40 a.m., closing the intersection for several hours, according to WWSB. The Bradenton Herald is reporting University Parkway was closed in both directions until 9:45 a.m.

All roads near the scene of the accident are now open in all directions.