PINELLAS COUNTY, Florida — A routine Tuesday morning commute turned into a serious emergency on U.S. 19 when a vehicle went off the road and into a utility pole, leaving two people airlifted to the hospital.
The Florida Highway Patrol says it happened just after 7 a.m. near Cypress Drive in the New Port Richey area.
A 59-year-old woman was behind the wheel, driving northbound on U.S. 19. A 44-year-old man was also in the vehicle — along with a small chihuahua.
How the Crash Unfolded
At some point, the driver lost control of the vehicle.
The car veered off the roadway and hit a utility pole with enough force to cause serious injuries to both occupants.
FHP troopers responded to the scene, along with multiple first responders. Traffic cameras captured helicopters landing in the area shortly after 7:30 a.m. to transport the man and woman to a nearby hospital.
Both are reported to have suffered serious injuries.
The Dog Made It Out Safe
In the middle of a serious crash scene, there was one bit of relief.
The chihuahua riding in the vehicle was not injured.
Troopers say the dog was taken to a local veterinarian for care and monitoring following the incident.
Road Closed for Nearly Two Hours
The crash triggered lane closures in both directions on U.S. 19 near the crash site.
North and southbound traffic was affected for nearly two hours as crews worked the scene.
Lanes reopened around 8:45 a.m., allowing traffic to move again.
What We Know Right Now
As of now, FHP has not released the names of the two people airlifted or provided an update on their conditions.
The cause of the crash — including what led the driver to lose control — is still under investigation.
This is a developing story. Updates will be added as more information becomes available from the Florida Highway Patrol.
Were you near U.S. 19 Tuesday morning and saw what happened? Share what you witnessed in the comments below — your account could help piece together the full story.
