PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — A 23-year-old man lost his life in a devastating vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash at the intersection of Southern Boulevard and Kirk Road on the morning of July 26, 2025. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene shortly after 5:30 a.m., following reports of a fatal collision.
According to the official crash report, a driver was traveling eastbound on Southern Boulevard and began transitioning into the right turn lane to head south on Kirk Road. At that moment, 23-year-old Mikel Mouaddeb stepped into the roadway. Despite the driver’s attempt to swerve left to avoid a collision, the front passenger-side corner of the vehicle struck Mouaddeb. The impact was severe, causing his head to hit the base of the windshield before he came to rest in the eastbound left turn lane.
Emergency personnel arrived promptly, but Mouaddeb’s injuries were fatal, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, whose identity remains undisclosed, made a U-turn to return to the site, called 911, and cooperated fully with authorities. Investigators noted no signs of impairment, and no charges have been filed as of yet. The Sheriff’s Office is conducting a thorough investigation to determine if any citations or legal actions are necessary.
Details regarding whether Mouaddeb was using a crosswalk or the role of visibility remain unclear. The crash occurred during early morning hours, a time when low light conditions may have reduced the driver’s ability to spot the pedestrian in time to react fully.
This tragic incident underscores ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety in Palm Beach County, where similar accidents have raised alarms in recent months. Authorities are urging pedestrians to utilize designated crosswalks and wear reflective or bright clothing, especially during low-visibility hours. Drivers are reminded to stay alert, reduce speed, and exercise caution at intersections.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information from the public to assist with the investigation. Anyone with details about the crash is encouraged to contact the authorities. As the inquiry continues, the community grieves the loss of Mikel Mouaddeb and renews calls for enhanced road safety measures to protect both pedestrians and motorists.