ORANGE COUNTY—Sammy Lahik, a senior at Windermere High School, was one of four people killed in a two-vehicle crash March 2 in Orange County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred shortly before 11 p.m. on Central Florida Parkway, east of Whitley Place. Lahik was a passenger in a 2024 Toyota Camry that was speeding and collided with a 2024 BMW M2. FHP Troopers reported that the BMW attempted to pass the Camry by moving from the outside to the inside lane. The driver of the BMW returned to his lane, the vehicle struck the Toyota, forcing both vehicles off the roadway.
The Toyota subsequently struck a utility pole and multiple trees, ejecting one of its rear-seat passengers. The BMW also struck several trees.
Lahik, seated in the front passenger seat of the Toyota, was pronounced dead at the scene along with the BMW’s driver. Two other victims, a passenger in each vehicle, were transported to Orlando Health Dr. Phillips Hospital but succumbed to injuries. The Toyota’s driver sustained serious injuries and was also hospitalized.
Counseling Available
Windermere High School and the Orange County Public Schools community expressed their grief over the tragedy. Dr. Maria Vazquez, OCPS superintendent, released a statement saying, “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Windermere High senior Sammy Lahik, who was involved in a fatal car accident on Saturday night. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, and the entire Windermere community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Dr. Vazquez further assured that counselors would be available to support students and staff affected by this tragic event, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the school and community.
The crash remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol. Authorities have not released further details about the factors contributing to the crash.
