GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A University of Florida student died after two cars collided Saturday evening in Gainesville, causing one of the vehicles to strike the student and four other pedestrians, police said.
The Gainesville Police Department responded around 7:30 p.m. to the crash at West University Avenue and Northwest 17th Street, near UF’s Fletcher Hall.
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Police said a Honda Civic traveling east on West University Avenue and a Honda Accord attempting to turn south from westbound West University Avenue collided. Police said the Civic then skidded sideways, striking a pole and five pedestrians -- all UF students.
According to the Police Department, the pedestrians and the driver of the Civic were taken to area hospitals. Later that night, one of the pedestrians -- Sophia Lambert, a 19-year-old from Miami -- died, police said.
“GPD extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Sophia Lambert,” the Police Department said in a news release.
The university released a statement on the accident.
“We ask that you please keep Sophia, her family and her community lifted in your thoughts, as well as her classmates who sustained injuries during this tragic accident,” the statement reads, in part.
The statement said the university is providing counseling services, outreach and other support for the students and communities affected. Students can reach out to U Matter, We Care or the Counseling & Wellness Center. Faculty and staff are encouraged to connect with the Employee Assistance Program.
The statement also said conversations are underway regarding pedestrian and vehicular safety on and around campus.
The Police Department continues to investigate the crash.