Last Updated: 9:48 p.m.
Paul Deatherage, a 31-year-old resident of St. Augustine, was killed in early evening Friday (Dec. 22) when he lost control of his pick-up truck and crashed into a tree on U.S. 1 in Palm Coast, just north of Enterprise Drive and about a mile north of Whiteview Parkway.
The crash took place around 4:40 p.m. The driver was heading north on U.S. 1.
Driving past Enterprise Drive and past the slight curve that ends in front of the grounds of the Division of Forestry, Deatherage drifted into the median, appears to have over-corrected, then veered into the east shoulder, according to a Florida Highway Patrol investigator at the scene. The vehicle, a Toyota pick-up truck, rotated on its side and smashed into a large tree, wrapping itself around it.
First indications to the 911 dispatch center were that Deatherage may have still been breathing after the crash. Paramedics and firefighters from the Palm Coast Fire Department and Flagler County Fire Rescue, responding to the scene, conducted an extrication of Deatherage, carving out the passenger-side of the truck. But he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
FHP troopers were at the scene shortly after the crash. An FHP traffic homicide investigator arrived at the scene shortly after 6 p.m. The medical examiner was due at the scene later to claim the body of the driver.
Northbound traffic on U.S. 1 was reduced to one lane, with the Palm Coast Fire Police controlling traffic. Flagler County Sheriff’s deputies also responded to the scene, which was not expected to be cleared until well into evening. The man’s identity was to be released after next-of-kin notification had been made. The fatality adds to a tally that, at well over 30, has made 2017 one of the deadliest years on record for Flagler County roads, but without a significant pattern emerging as to deadliest roads.
tim thoms says
may our LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS have mercy on his soul!!
Jackie says
We drove past this when it happened it’s so sad! I feel sorry for the family being so close to the holidays! REST IN PEACE 💜
Howard says
will forever put a stain on the holidays for his family . so sad .
Jenn says
How horrible. May he RIP. Prayers go out to his family and friends.
Debbieg says
So sad. I was driving by and saw this accident. Prayers to his family. This is supposed to be a joyous season, celebrating with your family. RIP.
Vicki and Brian Nixon says
So Sad, RIP young man.
palmcoaster says
So young! May He be with God and prayers for his family!
David Deatherage says
My nephew Paul will be missed so much, my son Forrest Deatherage passed away two yrs ago on December 27th so they are reunited. Needless to say I’m feeling like a Grinch as Christmas is not my favorite time.
Flagler Man says
I’m sorry for you and your families loss.
Jason Crownover says
David please let me know about funeral arrangements. Midland mourns for you Paul. Rest easy my friend.
432-425-5380
Jenn says
Very sorry for the loss David.
Jenn says
The police are supposed to read an individual there right before they are questioned while being detained or arrested now look it up and educate yourself. Merry Christmas
Rick Kang says
Please Pray for him and his family. Also, please drive safely by using the UPS five step program! (1) Get the Big Picture,(2) Keep your eyes moving,(3) Be seen by others( use vehicle horn ), (4) Always gave yourself an out, and (5) Never back into traffic( At shopping malls, back into your parking spot or better yet, drive thru. one spot so that when you leave the mall you drive forward)! Merry Christmas and have a SAFE New Year!
Anonymous says
RIP young man. My heart and prayers go out to the family and friends of this young fellow as they cope with this tragic event.
Derrick says
May Paul rest in peace. I am very good friends with Paul’s father and I hope you keep him in your prayers during this very difficult time for him. I will pass any kind words on to him.
ASF says
Please pass my sympathies along to the family. I wish them healing.
Coaster says
Of all times right during Holdiays, really sad! RIP!!!
Whitney Brann says
Sad to lose a friend. David, if you or any of the family need anything just let me know please.
Rest easy my friend.
Demi Carrier says
Paul is my brother. He was such a loving person. My heart hurts so bad. I love you, big brother! I will miss you and I am so glad I came to visit you with my kids last month.
Katie Coit says
This breaks my heart. Paul and I have been friends since high school….we made it through MHS and Tech together. There’s not a time that I can think of that we weren’t friends. He had a smile and a laugh that could light up an entire room and this is a profound loss. He was generous, loving, kind and many, many more wonderful things. I hate that this happened to him…rest in peace sweet boy.
Brandy R. says
Paul was a huge part of our community and fellowship. He is missed so much. God’s plan is perfect, I keep reminding myself this. I am honored to have known Paul and call him friend. I love you, brother. Fly high!
Brandon Haile says
You will forever be missed buddy it was nice to work with you.. I am very proud of your accomplishments.. R.I.P..