Gary Smith, a 53-year-old resident of Palm Bay, was killed early this morning (March 1) in a two-vehicle crash as he was driving south on I-95, the Florida Highway Patrol reports.
Justin Looman, a 29-year-old resident of West Melbourne, was seriously injured in the crash.
According to FHP, Looman was at the wheel of a 2012 Jeep. Smith was driving a 1993 Jeep. Just after 2 a.m., they were on I-95 in the area of Palm Shores in Brevard County. Looman was in the center lane, Smith was in the right, or outside, lane. Looman was merging over into the right lane when the right-front of his Jeep struck the left rear of Smith’s Jeep.
The collision caused Smith’s Jeep to overturn several times and travel down the right embankment of the highway, the FHP report states. The Jeep came to rest on its left side, ejecting Smith along the way. Smith was found in the wooded area along the road. The FHP report notes that he was not wearing a seat belt. Looman’s Jeep traveled further south for a distance before going off the roads and into the tree-line.
Smith was taken to Holmes Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Looman was taken to Viera Hospital. The investigation is continuing, and charges are pending.
Mr. Z says
Sounds like Mr. Smith’s Jeep was camping out in Mr. Looman’s blindspot and when Mr. Looman when to change lanes they crashed.
Both drivers need to be aware of a vehicles blindspot.
I have seen too many vehicles just sit right in the blindspot of another vehicle and even if you look over your shoulder sometimes you don’t see the vehicle.
I call them Non-driver, drivers. People who have a valid drivers license but don’t have a clue how to drive.
tom says
Actually, Mr. Smith’ vehicle was hit in the left rear by the front right of Mr. Looman’s vehicle. Therefore, Mr. Smith was in front of Mr. Loomam, which negates the blind spot ascertation.
Adam says
Some people should just not say anything if they can not comprehend what it is they are reading. Rest in peace Gary we all are going to miss you.
tammy says
Gary we will miss you.i hope your family gets justice.god bless you.
tammy says
I agree adam