22-year-old dies in Manatee County crash after out-of-control SUV hits tree, FHP says

A 22-year-old Myakka City man died early Monday after the SUV he was riding in hit a tree, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Troopers said the crash happened around 3:16 a.m. in East Manatee County when the driver of the SUV attempted to turn left onto westbound State Road 64 from Verna Bethany Road.

The driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road, overturn and collide with a tree, according to a news release.

The 22-year-old passenger, who was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the SUV, FHP said. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene, according to the agency.

FHP says the 23-year-old driver, also from Myakka City, sustained minor injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

Michael Moore Jr.

Bradenton Herald

Michael Moore Jr. is the public safety and justice reporter for the Bradenton Herald. He covers crime, courts and law enforcement. Michael grew up in Bradenton and graduated from University of South Florida St. Petersburg.