‘Lucky to be alive:’ Volusia sheriff’s deputy suffers ‘significant injuries’ in motorcycle crash

DELTONA, Fla. – A Volusia County sheriff’s deputy was injured Wednesday morning when a 92-year-old Deltona man driving a car turned in front of his motorcycle, resulting in a head-on crash, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

The two-vehicle wreck happened around 7:20 a.m. on Saxon Boulevard at Merrimac Lane in Deltona.

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The FHP said the car was headed west on Saxon and the deputy was westbound and they both had green lights at the Merriman intersection. The driver of the car turned into the direct path of the bike, leading to the crash, according to authorities.

Troopers said the 32-year-old deputy, whose name has not been released, was taken to a hospital as a trauma alert patient with serious injuries.

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office later tweeted about the deputy’s condition.

“The deputy is conscious and talking, and while he has significant injuries, he is receiving great care on the road to recovery. FHP is handling the crash investigation. Thanks for your prayers and support!” the tweet said.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood described the deputy as a “hard-working young man” and said he “will be back in action ASAP.”

“Thank God this deputy is alive,” Chitwood tweeted. “Thanks to all who jumped in to help, especially an off-duty firefighter who was quick to render aid. The deputy doesn’t remember the crash, but I believe this helmet probably saved his life!”

Chitwood detailed the crash and deputy’s injuries.

“He was ejected from the motorcycle. Landed on his head. He’s got broken ribs, bruised lungs, but at the end of the day, he’s walking and talking and he’s alive,” Chitwood said. “This young man’s been with us since 2017. He’s a member of our SWAT team. He recently completed motors training and was assigned to the Deltona traffic unit.”

Chitwood said the deputy will be off the job for a while.

“But we expect him back and doing what he does best, which is protecting and serving the community.

The other driver, who was wearing a seat belt, suffered minor injuries and was issued a ticket for violation of right of way, the FHP said.

There were traffic delays in the area after the crash.

No other details have been released.

Check back for updates.