LAKE CITY, Fla. – A third person has now died following a traffic crash in Lake City, and a suspect is now in custody following what investigators describe as a high-speed collision at a busy intersection.
On Wednesday, the Lake City Police Department released updated information regarding the fatal crash, which occurred Aug. 15, just before 9 p.m. at the intersection of West US Highway 90 and NW Centurion Court.
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Three dead, including two teenagers
Officers arrived to find a black Ford F-150 and a blue Chrysler minivan with extensive damage. Officers, Lake City firefighters and emergency medical personnel immediately began providing lifesaving care at the scene.
Three people have since died as a result of the crash. Bonnie Jean Welker, 44, of Lake City, died at the scene. Mae Waters, 15, of Lake City, also died at the scene. Mya Raulerson, 16, of Lake City, died Wednesday, Aug. 19 from injuries suffered in the crash.
What investigators say they found
The preliminary investigation determined the Ford F-150 was traveling west on US Highway 90 when it struck the passenger side of the Chrysler, which was turning at the intersection. Witnesses reported the Ford was traveling at a high rate of speed before the collision.
Suspect flees, then arrested nearby
Police say the driver of the Ford left the crash scene before officers arrived. Investigators identified the alleged driver as Jaron Carr and located him a short time later at the Gateway Inn. Carr was detained and transported to the Lake City Police Department.
Carr was arrested and charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving death and driving while his license was suspended or revoked. He was also held on active warrants from Missouri and Brevard County, Florida.
Investigation ongoing
The Lake City Police Department Traffic Unit continues to investigate the crash. Additional charges remain possible pending the results of the investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Lake City Police Department at (386) 752-4343. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the LCPD Tips line at (386) 719-2068 or Crime Stoppers of Columbia County at (386) 754-7099.