Deadly crash in Charlotte County claims two lives, including 12-year-old girl

A high-speed collision on Harbor View Road in Charlotte County resulted in the deaths of a 25-year-old driver from Lake Placid and a 12-year-old passenger, while another driver was critically injured. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that the driver of a 2003 Mazda B3000 pickup truck took off from the scene of a prior crash on Kings Highway and Veterans Boulevard Saturday night.No injuries were reported in that crash.The pickup truck continued southbound on Interstate 75 and exited onto Harbor View Road, traveling west at a high speed. Meanwhile, a 2001 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by a 44-year-old man from Port Charlotte, was traveling east on Harbor View Road. The pickup truck crossed the centerline while negotiating a right curve, leading to a collision with the Malibu.The driver of the pickup truck and the 12-year-old passenger in the Malibu were pronounced dead at the scene. The 44-year-old man is critically hurt.The crash remains under investigation, according to FHP.DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.