BOCA RATON, FL. (THECOUNT) — Jeferson Barrera Varela, of West Palm Beach, has been identified as the victim in a fatal motorcycle crash Thursday night in Boca Raton, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He was 22.
The collision occurred at approximately 9:35 p.m. at the intersection of Southern Boulevard and Caroline Drive in Palm Beach County. Authorities said Varela was operating a 2000 Suzuki GSX750 westbound on Southern Boulevard when the incident occurred.
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According to investigators, a 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander driven by Lauve Quetant, 52, was traveling eastbound on Southern Boulevard and attempting to turn north onto Caroline Drive at the time of the crash. While the SUV was making the turn, the motorcycle struck the passenger side of the Mitsubishi.
The impact ejected Varela from the motorcycle. He came to rest on the sidewalk at the northwest corner of the intersection and was pronounced dead at 9:39 p.m., officials said.
The Mitsubishi overturned onto its driver’s side following the collision and came to rest on Caroline Drive just north of the intersection. Quetant was able to exit the vehicle and reported no injuries.
Authorities said Varela was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The Suzuki motorcycle came to rest in the right lane of Southern Boulevard after the collision.
The crash remains under investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Division. Investigator Schneider is leading the case.
Southern Boulevard is a major east-west corridor in Palm Beach County, connecting West Palm Beach with surrounding communities. The intersection with Caroline Drive is located in a mixed residential and commuter area where traffic volume remains steady throughout the evening hours.
Google Maps: Southern Boulevard and Caroline Drive
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