Windermere High School Senior Among Four Killed in Orange County Crash

ORLANDO, Florida – A  two-car collision late Saturday night in Orange County claimed the lives of four people, including Windermere High School senior Sammy Lahik, leaving the Central Florida community in mourning.

The crash occurred around 11:37 p.m. on March 1, 2025, near Central Florida Parkway and Lake Breeze Drive, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 23-year-old Orlando man driving a BMW sedan westbound attempted to pass a Toyota Camry in the eastbound lane, resulting in a head-on collision with the Camry’s front left side. Both vehicles spun out of control, veering off the road. The BMW struck several trees, killing the driver and his 23-year-old female passenger from Orlando at the scene. The Camry hit a light pole and multiple trees, leading to the deaths of two passengers: 18-year-old Sammy Lahik of Windermere, who was ejected from the vehicle after not wearing a seatbelt, and a 23-year-old front-seat passenger pronounced dead at the hospital. The Camry’s driver, a 23-year-old Orlando woman, survived with serious injuries and was transported to Dr. Phillips Hospital.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Windermere High senior Sammy Lahik, who was involved in a fatal car accident on Saturday night. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, and the entire Windermere community during this incredibly difficult time. The sudden passing of a young life is an unimaginable loss, and we are committed to providing support for our students and staff as they navigate this grief. Counselors will be available for anyone in need of support. Please keep Sammy’s loved ones and the Windermere High School community in your thoughts as they mourn this profound loss,” said Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) Superintendent Dr. Maria F. Vazquez in a statement released after the crash.

The incident has shaken the Windermere High School community, with OCPS ensuring grief counseling is available. Lahik was recently highlighted by Windermere High School on Facebook for his acceptance to Duke University.

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash.