The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its probe of a fatal February crash in front of Patriot Oaks Academy, finding that no criminal charges will be filed against the teenage driver involved.
The collision happened on Longleaf Pine Parkway and involved a 17-year-old driving a 2019 Infiniti QX50 and a 12-year-old student operating a small gas-powered mini dirt bike.
Investigators found that the child entered the roadway from a crosswalk area just before the collision, leaving the driver with little time to avoid impact.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after the crash and transported the student to a nearby hospital with severe njuries.
The child later died. Authorities noted the student was wearing a helmet at the time of the incident.
The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit conducted a detailed investigation, using aerial mapping, video footage, and witness statements to reconstruct the accident.
Their findings showed no evidence that the driver was speeding, impaired, or driving recklessly.
Officials also clarified that, although the crash occurred near a school, classes were not in session and the school zone was inactive at the time.
The teen has cooperated fully throughout the investigation.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and all those affected by this tragic incident,” SJSO wrote in a statement.
