WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — Two people are dead in a crash involving two tractor-trailers on Florida's Turnpike near Winter Garden, the Florida Highway Patrol said.
The crash happened just after 5 a.m. Tuesday on the northbound Turnpike near State Road 50.
Troopers said both trucks were traveling northbound.
The driver of the lead truck told investigators that he pulled onto the emergency lane to check a possible tire issue. As he pulled back onto the road, another tractor-trailer -- which was hauling flowers -- stuck the rear of the first truck. The cab tore open upon impact and the driver and passenger were ejected onto the roadway. Both died at the scene.
"The first trooper on scene said it's one of the worst semi collisions he’s ever seen based on the fact that the semi that rearended the one getting back on the road is completely demolished," said FHP Sgt. Kim Montes.
The two victims were from Miami. Their names have not been released.
The driver of the other truck who was not injured is 54-year-old Larry Jones of Orlando, and for now, troopers say he will not be ticketed.
An investigation is underway.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WFTV
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