By Crash News Writer 
Walnut Hill, FL (August 27, 2025) – A devastating five-vehicle collision on Highway 97 left eight individuals injured Saturday afternoon, including three who sustained critical injuries. The incident took place just before 4:30 p.m. on August 23, 2025, near Ernest Ward Middle School and forced officials to shut down the highway for nearly five hours.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when an 18-year-old Atmore driver lost control of his SUV, which struck a southbound passenger van before crashing into three additional vehicles. His SUV then overturned and landed on its side, prompting a large-scale emergency response.
A Ford Expedition was among the vehicles involved and sustained heavy damage. At least one person was ejected during the impact. Three medical helicopters and multiple EMS units transported critically injured victims, including an 8-year-old child, to a Pensacola hospital for urgent treatment.
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Victims of a car accident near Walnut Hill should consider their options immediately. Taking early action can secure vital evidence and strengthen any personal injury claim. Florida residents can better understand their rights by reviewing car accident laws in Florida.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue. For more insight, refer to our frequently asked questions in Florida
- The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
- Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
- Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.
For support and guidance following this crash or similar incidents, visit our page on accident resources in Florida
The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer
If you or a family member was injured in this crash, speak with a Florida personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.