Florida Toll Booth Attendant Dies After Truck Crash into Ocean
Florida beach toll booth attendant killed when truck slammed into her station

Image: The Independent
Tammy Jo Baker, a 63-year-old toll booth attendant in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, was killed when a pickup truck crashed into her station and subsequently drove into the ocean. The driver, Deanna Harrell, has been detained and is undergoing a mental health evaluation and alcohol testing.
- 01Tammy Jo Baker was a dedicated employee of Volusia County for many years.
- 02The crash occurred around 12:40 p.m. on a Monday, raising concerns about potential injuries if it had happened during a busier time.
- 03The driver, Deanna Harrell, is 36 years old and has been detained under Florida’s Baker Act for a mental health crisis.
- 04Witnesses reported that Harrell attempted to drive away but got stuck in the sand before driving into the ocean.
- 05Authorities are investigating the incident, including testing Harrell for alcohol intoxication.
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A tragic incident occurred in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, where 63-year-old Tammy Jo Baker, a toll booth attendant, was killed when a pickup truck crashed into her station at approximately 12:40 p.m. on Monday. The truck, driven by 36-year-old Deanna Harrell, smashed through the booth and ended up in the ocean. Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood described the booth's lack of structural integrity, stating that the impact at high speed was devastating. Despite immediate efforts by lifeguards, Baker succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Sheriff Chitwood expressed concern about the potential for greater casualties had the crash occurred during a busier time. Harrell has been detained under the Baker Act due to a mental health crisis, and authorities are also testing her for alcohol intoxication. Witnesses indicated that Harrell appeared to be trying to escape but got stuck in the sand before the vehicle entered the water. The site of the crash will remain closed while investigations continue.
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The incident has raised safety concerns regarding toll booths and beach access areas, particularly during peak times.
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