What happened at Lake Nona? Three high school seniors injured after 2 cars caught fire after crash

A severe 2 vehicle car crash in the Lake Nona area of Orlando left three high school seniors injured after two vehicles caught fire. The accident occurred on Wednesday, February 12, near Narcoossee Road and Nonacrest Drive, just over two miles from Lake Nona High School.

Orlando Fire Rescue reported that two vehicles erupted in flames following a crash, leaving one person with severe burns and two others with less serious injuries. Emergency crews, including a medical helicopter, responded swiftly to the scene.

According to the Orlando Police Department, initial findings suggest reckless driving played a role in the accident. Authorities stated that the vehicles were speeding and weaving through traffic before the collision, reported Wesh News.

School board member, Maria Salamanca, indicated in a social media post that drag racing might have been involved. Eyewitnesses described the impact as catastrophic, with one car slamming into a tree with such force that it crumpled in the middle before ricocheting off.

---

Authorities immediately responded to the Lake Nona accident

Orlando Fire Rescue confirmed that multiple cars were involved, and two burst into flames. One of the victims suffered severe burn injuries, while the other two sustained non-life-threatening injuries. All three were transported to area hospitals for treatment. In a post on X, Orlando Fire Rescue wrote:

"#MCI Crews responded to a 2 vehicle crash on the 9900 block of Narcoossee Rd, both cars were on fire. 3 patients total, All Trauma alerts and were transported to ORMC. 1 patient suffered severe burns and was extricated, 1 other patient was transported via AirCare."

Orlando Police also gave a traffic update about the incident. They wrote:

"TRAFFIC ALERT: Officers are at the scene of a crash near Narcoosee Rd and Nonacrest Dr. All northbound and southbound lanes of Narcoosee are currently shut down. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area and use alternative routes."

Maria Salamanca, an Orange County Public School board member, identified the victims as seniors at Lake Nona High School. In a Facebook post, she expressed the community’s grief and urged parents to talk to their children about safe driving.

"District staff and the Lake Nona High School community are saddened to learn that 3 seniors were involved in a severe car accident this afternoon near Narcoossee Rd and Nonacrest Dr., just over 2 miles away from campus. This is terrible news for the Lake Nona and greater Orlando community, and I am hoping for our students' wellbeing and speedy recovery from this tragedy."

---

In her post, Maria Salamanca, an Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) board member for District 2, expressed deep concern and sadness over the car accident involving three Lake Nona High School seniors. Grief counselors will be available at Lake Nona High School starting the next day to support students and staff. She said Principal Campbell would send a message to families with more details. She urged families to discuss safe driving and responsible decision-making with their children. She described the accident as a tragedy for the Lake Nona and Orlando communities and wished for the students' well-being and recovery.