Jacksonville, Florida, December 5, 2025
Logan Fletcher Park has pleaded not guilty to DUI manslaughter charges after a tragic crash that killed a local teacher and his infant son. The incident raised concerns over pedestrian safety, prompting discussions on necessary traffic improvements in the area. Legal proceedings continue as the community grapples with the aftermath.
Jacksonville Man Pleads Not Guilty to DUI Manslaughter Charges in Fatal Baymeadows Crash
Jacksonville, Florida – Logan Fletcher Park, 24, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of DUI manslaughter following a tragic incident on May 16, 2025, that resulted in the deaths of Mitchell Patch, a local elementary school math teacher, and his 1-year-old son, Everett.
Details of the Incident
On the evening of May 16, 2025, Mitchell Patch and his son were crossing Baymeadows Road near San Jose Boulevard when they were struck by a vehicle driven by Park. Patch was carrying his son at the time. Following the crash, Park was transported to a nearby hospital, where his blood alcohol content was measured at 0.107, exceeding the legal limit.
Legal Proceedings
After an extensive investigation, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the State Attorney’s Office, obtained a warrant for Park’s arrest. He was arrested in early November 2025, six months after the crash. Park’s pretrial hearing is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at 9 a.m.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The incident has raised significant concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety in the area. City Councilman Joe Carlucci has advocated for safety improvements, including the installation of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalk and a refuge island at the intersection of Baymeadows Road and Goodby’s Executive Drive, near Wicked Barley Brewing Company. The Florida Department of Transportation has evaluated the location and recommended these enhancements to prevent future tragedies.
Background on DUI Manslaughter Charges
DUI manslaughter charges are brought against individuals who, while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, cause the death of another person. In Florida, a conviction can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. The case against Park underscores the serious consequences of impaired driving and the importance of road safety.
Related Incidents
This case is part of a broader concern regarding impaired driving incidents leading to fatalities. For instance, in 2018, a crash on Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa resulted in the deaths of a mother and her daughter, leading to significant legal and legislative actions.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of Mitchell Patch and his son, Everett, have highlighted critical issues related to impaired driving and pedestrian safety. As legal proceedings continue, the community remains focused on implementing measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Logan Fletcher Park faced?
Logan Fletcher Park has been charged with two counts of DUI manslaughter following the fatal crash on May 16, 2025, that resulted in the deaths of Mitchell Patch and his 1-year-old son, Everett.
When is Logan Fletcher Park’s pretrial hearing scheduled?
Logan Fletcher Park’s pretrial hearing is scheduled for January 7, 2026, at 9 a.m.
What safety measures are being considered in response to the incident?
In response to the incident, City Councilman Joe Carlucci has advocated for the installation of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalk and a refuge island at the intersection of Baymeadows Road and Goodby’s Executive Drive, near Wicked Barley Brewing Company, to enhance pedestrian safety.
What are the potential penalties for DUI manslaughter in Florida?
In Florida, a conviction for DUI manslaughter can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, reflecting the serious consequences of impaired driving.
Can you provide an example of a similar incident?
In 2018, a crash on Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa resulted in the deaths of a mother and her daughter, leading to significant legal and legislative actions to address impaired driving and pedestrian safety.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Baymeadows Road near San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Date of Incident | May 16, 2025 |
| Victims | Mitchell Patch (elementary school math teacher) and his 1-year-old son, Everett |
| Driver Charged | Logan Fletcher Park, 24 |
| Charges | Two counts of DUI manslaughter |
| Blood Alcohol Content of Driver | 0.107 (above the legal limit) |
| Pretrial Hearing Date | January 7, 2026, at 9 a.m. |
| Proposed Safety Measures | Installation of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crosswalk and a refuge island at the intersection of Baymeadows Road and Goodby’s Executive Drive |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
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