FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office said it will increase patrols on roads and waterways over the Fourth of July weekend after two traffic fatalities occurred within minutes of each other on Thursday, Sheriff Rick Staly said.
Staly said a pedestrian was struck and killed in Palm Coast, and on West State Road 100 in western Flagler County a tractor-trailer and pickup collided, producing one fatality and one serious injury.
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“Let’s work together by not driving distracted and not driving aggressively,” he said.
State Road 100 is closed in both directions between County Road 302 and Deen Road.
Pine Lakes Parkway is closed in both directions at Wellington Dr.
What the sheriff’s office planned
- Increased visibility and enforcement will begin July 3 and continue through the holiday weekend, with deputies patrolling major roadways, waterways, beaches, parks and other high-activity areas.
- Enforcement will target aggressive driving, speeding, seat-belt violations and other dangerous behaviors. Dedicated DUI enforcement will be in effect throughout the weekend.
- On the water, deputies will watch for reckless operation, boating under the influence and children without life jackets.
Fireworks, pets and public safety
The sheriff’s office reminded residents that private fireworks are illegal in the City of Palm Coast and Flagler Beach. In unincorporated Flagler County, fireworks are legal only on July 4 under Florida law. The office noted fireworks can cause serious injuries and can frighten people with PTSD, residents with autistic needs and pets.
“This Fourth of July is a special one as our nation celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” Staly said. “Let’s honor that legacy by celebrating responsibly and thinking of the impact to others and pets that may be nearby. Enjoy the holiday, celebrate our freedoms with your community, and make smart choices so you do not lose your freedoms by visiting the Green Roof Inn, aka the county jail.”
Crime prevention tips
The sheriff’s office urged residents and visitors to prevent crimes of opportunity: lock vehicle doors, hide valuables, do not leave items unattended, lock home doors and close garage doors when not in the garage. Eventgoers were advised to stay aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity immediately.
Community events
Several community events are planned as part of the United Flagler Fourth celebration:
- First Friday (Flagler Beach): Friday, July 3 — 6 p.m., Veterans Park (downtown Flagler Beach)
- Stars and Stripes Parade: Saturday, July 4 — 9 a.m., A1A route from 6th Street North to 6th Street South (Flagler Beach)
- Fireworks Over the Runways (Flagler Executive Airport, Palm Coast): Saturday, July 4 — public entry opens 5 p.m.; fireworks at 9 p.m.
The FCSO Operations Center in Bunnell, the District 2 office in Palm Coast and visitation at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility will close Thursday at noon and reopen Monday, July 6, at 8 a.m. Sheriff’s patrol and special operations services will continue through the holiday. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For nonemergencies, call 386-313-4911.