Brevard County, FL – Early Monday morning, a hit-and-run crash on Interstate-95 resulted in the death of 20-year-old Cassi Taylor, according to authorities.
The crash occurred shortly before midnight when a Mercedes-Benz struck an alligator on the roadway. Taylor was driving a Toyota Tacoma behind the Mercedes and swerved to avoid it, lost control, and overturned. Emergency responders reported that she was ejected from her vehicle and later struck by an unidentified vehicle that fled the scene.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Taylor was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. The driver of the Mercedes, identified as a 58-year-old Canadian man, was unharmed and remained at the scene.
The Indian River County Sheriff's Office confirmed the tragic news, stating that Taylor was set to be officially sworn in as a Civilian Corrections Assistant on the day of her death. Her father, Deputy Scott Burke, is a recognized figure in the community.
An investigation is ongoing as authorities seek information regarding the vehicle that left the scene. Individuals with any details are encouraged to contact FHP or Central Florida Crimeline.