Families Have Yet to Claim Bodies of Haitian Victims in Florida Turnpike Crash
More than a week after a deadly crash on the Florida Turnpike, the bodies of three Haitian victims remain unclaimed at the St. Lucie County Medical Examiner’s Office, according to reporting from the Miami Herald.
Victims Identified
The victims of the August 12, 2025 crash have been identified as:
- Herby Dufresne, 30
- Faniola Joseph, 27
- Rodrigue Dor, 53
All three were Haitian immigrants living in Florida.
Circumstances of the Accident
The tragedy occurred when the victims’ minivan collided with an 18-wheeler truck that was making an illegal turn on the Florida Turnpike, near Fort Pierce. The violent impact claimed the lives of all three passengers.
Families Have Not Yet Responded
As of this week, neither relatives nor funeral homes have signed the necessary paperwork to release the bodies. Community organizations have stated that they are attempting to contact the families, but so far, no arrangements have been confirmed.
Community in Mourning
The loss has sent shockwaves through the Haitian community in Florida. Friends and loved ones describe the pain as particularly devastating in the case of Herby Dufresne, a single father who leaves behind a 5-year-old daughter, with another child on the way.
Community leaders have called on relatives to come forward so the victims may receive a proper farewell.
Source: Miami Herald
