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Head-on crash shuts down US-301 at County Road 218 for hours

FHP investigating head-on crash that killed one driver before dawn Tuesday on U.S. 301. (WJXT)

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – A Keystone Heights driver died in an early morning wreck on U.S. 301 south of County Road 218 when his pickup truck crossed into oncoming traffic and struck another pickup head-on, according to Florida Highway Patrol.

Crash investigators said the 29-year-old man was driving north at 5:45 a.m. between Lawtey and Baldwin when he lost control, cross the median and struck the southbound vehicle.

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The driver of that northbound pickup died at the scene. The 30-year-old Jacksonville man driving the second vehicle had only minor injuries.

Both directions of U.S. 301 were shut down for some time. The southbound lanes remained closed past noon. Drivers were diverted onto C.R. 218. Major back-ups were visible as drivers attempt to take the alternate.

Crash investigators have not yet determined what caused the crash, but roads in the area were slick from rain overnight.


About the Authors
Zachery Lashway headshot

Zachery “Zach” Lashway anchors KPRC 2+ Now. He began at KPRC 2 as a reporter in October 2021.

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