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On Thursday, authorities say a teen died after being hit by a pickup truck on Biscayne Boulevard while walking home from school, marking the tragic milestone.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) says it will be adding more officers on the roads after the city marked 100 traffic deaths this year.
On Thursday, authorities said a teen died after being hit by a pickup truck on Biscayne Boulevard while walking home from school, marking the tragic milestone. It also marked the 19th pedestrian death in 2025.
First Coast News spoke to a neighbor who lived just seven houses down from where the teen was hit and killed. Joyce Valcour has lived in the neighborhood for 40 years and said it was a sight that shook the entire block.
“It’s traumatizing to all of us,” said Valcour. “His shoes were still out there. His bookbag was still in the street.”
JSO says it will increase the number of traffic officers from 34 to 50, as well as the number of motor officers from 17 to 30. Officers are also asking drivers to remain cautious while on the roads.
“Our officers are working every day, but we can’t keep the roads safe without your help,” JSO said in a Facebook post. “Please slow down. Drive sober. Wear your seatbelt. Watch for pedestrians and other motorists. Put the phone down. Together, we’ll see safer streets ahead.”
Previous First Coast News reporting contributed to this article.