News Summary
A traffic study is set to take place on Baymeadows Road following a tragic incident that claimed the lives of a father and his toddler son. The Florida Department of Transportation aims to enhance safety measures in the area after local leaders called for change. With numerous calls from the community for improved traffic signals, lighting, and pedestrian crossings, the city is gearing up for necessary infrastructure improvements to prevent future tragedies. The increased awareness of roadway safety comes as Duval County reports a notable rise in traffic fatalities this year.
Jacksonville Traffic Safety Study Initiated After Tragic Death of Father and Toddler on Baymeadows Road
A traffic study will be conducted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on Baymeadows Road following a fatal accident that resulted in the deaths of a father and his young son. The study aims to assess the safety and infrastructure of the roadway where the incident occurred.
The tragic event took place around 8:30 p.m. on May 16 when Mitchell Patch, a 34-year-old math teacher at Bayview Elementary School, and his 1-year-old son, Everett, were struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross Baymeadows Road in the 4100 block. Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and the driver of the Honda involved is cooperating with investigators while recovering in the hospital.
In the wake of this devastating incident, local leaders, including city council member Joe Carlucci, have called for improved safety measures in the area. Carlucci highlighted the profound impact the accident has had on the Baymeadows community and emphasized the need for enhancements such as traffic signals, better lighting, road striping, and signage.
Community Response and Calls for Change
Following the accident, Carlucci has been in discussions with the FDOT to expedite the traffic survey and implement necessary improvements. There have already been two additional incidents reported in the same location earlier in 2025, which raise concerns about the safety of Baymeadows Road. The FDOT acknowledged the tragic accident and signaled its commitment to reviewing crash reports to identify ways to enhance roadway safety.
This year, Duval County has recorded a total of 62 traffic fatalities, with 12 of those involving pedestrians. Local businesses, such as Wicked Barley Brewing, have also expressed the urgent need for pedestrian safety enhancements, including the installation of crosswalks and pedestrian lights to ensure safer passage for those on foot.
Mitchell Patch’s Legacy
Mitchell Patch was remembered as a dedicated educator with more than 12 years of service at Bayview Elementary. He was recognized for his commitment to his students, having received a teacher of the year award in 2024. In the aftermath of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist his wife with funeral costs and related expenses.
Ongoing Efforts for Safer Roadways
Councilman Carlucci has reported receiving numerous calls and emails from the community urging for the implementation of safety changes following this heartbreaking accident. Baymeadows Road, maintained by the state, serves as a major east-west connector within Jacksonville but is currently lacking sufficient pedestrian crossings, raising serious safety concerns.
While officials recognize the gravity of the situation and are seeking quicker solutions, the FDOT has indicated that the process for roadway improvements can take over 90 days and will need a thorough analysis by engineers to ensure that all necessary safety enhancements are effectively addressed.
In response to the tragedy, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has also reached out in support of the ongoing efforts aimed at improving pedestrian safety in the vicinity of Baymeadows Road, prioritizing community safety as a critical issue moving forward.
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Additional Resources
- News4Jax
- First Coast News
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- Jacksonville.com
- Google Search: Baymeadows Road traffic accident
