Pasco County, Florida — A 24-year-old Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Road Ranger was killed while helping protect motorists at an interstate crash scene, leaving his family mourning the loss of a young man they say devoted his life to serving others.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Antonio Marazita was responding to crashes along southbound Interstate 75 in the Lutz area of Pasco County on Sunday night when he was fatally struck by a suspected impaired driver.
Authorities say the tragedy unfolded as Road Rangers were working to keep other drivers safe after two separate crashes had left vehicles blocking the roadway.
Troopers Say Road Ranger Was Protecting Crash Scene
Investigators said Marazita and another FDOT Road Ranger had positioned emergency vehicles with flashing lights to block traffic while assisting at the crash scene.
According to FHP, Marazita had exited his truck and was helping secure the southbound lanes when a pickup truck driven by 40-year-old Darren Jenkins allegedly struck one of the Road Ranger vehicles.
Troopers say the vehicle then traveled between two emergency vehicles before hitting Marazita.
Despite emergency response efforts, the 24-year-old died from his injuries at the scene.
Investigation Alleges Driver Was Heavily Impaired
According to investigators, Jenkins’ breath alcohol test allegedly measured more than four times Florida’s legal blood alcohol limit following the crash.
A criminal complaint also alleges Jenkins had been involved in a hit-and-run crash in Ocala earlier the same day.
Additionally, investigators say he was arrested in Georgia last month on DUI charges, though details regarding that case remain limited.
Authorities have not yet announced future court dates, and initial reports did not identify legal representation for Jenkins.
The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing.
Mother Recalls Final Hours Before Tragedy
Antonio Marazita’s mother, Joi Marazita, said Sunday had started as a joyful family celebration before everything changed.
The family had just finished celebrating her grandson’s birthday when they received the devastating phone call informing them that Antonio had been involved in a crash.
“Sunday, we just got done celebrating my grandson’s birthday,” she said. “My son-in-law got a phone call that my son had been in an accident.”
She said her son-in-law rushed to the scene before calling back with heartbreaking news.
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“He calls, and he’s like, ‘He’s gone’,” Marazita said. “And I said, ‘Get me there. I want to be there’. I wanted to be there, and I wanted to hold his hand, and I said, ‘No, what do you mean he’s gone? How can he be gone?'”
Family Says He Dedicated His Life to Helping Others
Marazita described her son as someone who genuinely cared about protecting his community. According to his family, Antonio had long dreamed of becoming a police officer and viewed public service as his calling.
His mother said no words can replace the loss of the son who brought happiness to their lives for 24 years.
“You can’t replace what 24 years have brought me,” she said. “Love and joy. He’s my boy.”
As investigators continue examining the crash, Marazita’s death serves as another tragic reminder of the dangers first responders and roadside workers face while protecting the public. Authorities continue urging drivers to slow down, stay alert and move over whenever emergency vehicles are stopped along the roadway.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case? Do you believe penalties for impaired drivers who strike roadside workers should be strengthened? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
