Photo: One of the vehicles involved in the deadly four-vehicle crash on US-301 in Sumter County on November 14, 2026, that claimed three lives, including two children. (Photo courtesy of Florida Highway Patrol)

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — What began as a Saturday evening drive ended in tragedy for three people, including two young children, following a four-vehicle crash on US-301 in Sumter County.

The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed that an 11-year-old boy, a 10-year-old girl, and a 53-year-old woman died as a result of the crash, which occurred on November 14, 2026, at approximately 7:45 p.m. near the intersection of US-301 and County Road 652.

Details provided directly to The Pasco Signal by Florida Highway Patrol Sergeant Steve Gaskins explain how the crash unfolded and the sequence of events that led to the three deaths.

How the Crash Unfolded

According to FHP, a 54-year-old man from Bushnell was traveling northbound on US-301 in a Ford F-150 when he approached two vehicles ahead of him.

One of those vehicles, a Jeep Compass driven by a 53-year-old Bushnell woman, had stopped behind a Nissan NV driven by a 61-year-old Bushnell man.

The Nissan driver was waiting for an opportunity to make a left turn onto County Road 652.

Investigators reported that the driver of the Ford F-150 failed to slow or stop as he approached the two vehicles.

The pickup struck the Jeep Compass, pushing it forward into the Nissan.

The collision caused the Jeep to overturn into the southbound lane of US-301, where it was subsequently struck by another vehicle.

That fourth vehicle was also a Jeep Compass, driven by a 32-year-old man from Spring Hill who was traveling southbound.

Two Children Die at Scene, Woman Later Dies at Hospital

Inside the first Jeep Compass were two young passengers, an 11-year-old boy and a 10-year-old girl.

Both children suffered fatal injuries at the scene, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The 53-year-old woman driving the Jeep was transported to an area hospital following the crash, where she later died from her injuries.

The three remaining drivers involved in the collision sustained injuries described by FHP as non-life-threatening. All three were transported to area hospitals.

What Authorities Have Confirmed

The information provided by FHP identifies the four drivers by their ages and hometowns but does not include their names.

The statement also does not specify whether citations or criminal charges have been issued in connection with the collision.

While the crash occurred in Sumter County, one of the drivers involved was a 32-year-old Spring Hill resident.

The incident left three people dead, including two children, following a series of collisions that began when a pickup truck failed to slow or stop for vehicles ahead.

The Pasco Signal extends its condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.

The Pasco Signal will continue monitoring for additional information from the Florida Highway Patrol and provide updates as further verified details become available.

Editor’s Note

This article is based on information provided directly to The Pasco Signal by Sergeant Steve Gaskins, Public Affairs Officer for the Florida Highway Patrol. The report reflects the details available as of November 15, 2026. Additional information will be included if confirmed by authorities.

The Pasco Signal – Independent News