With deep sorrow, authorities and community members are reflecting on the tragic passing of Paul M. DeVito, 38, of Plantation, Florida, who lost his life in a devastating crash on northbound U.S. 23 in Whiteford Township on Monday afternoon, June 29, 2026.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were dispatched to the scene at approximately 1:19 p.m. near the U.S. 223 interchange following reports of a serious collision involving an SUV and a semi-truck.
Preliminary findings indicate that DeVito was driving a white 2021 Toyota RAV4 in the right northbound lane when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle struck the rear of a trailer being pulled by a white 2024 Volvo semi-tractor. The truck was operated by Herney D. Pena-Fajardo, 43, of Lenox, Massachusetts.
Investigators report that the force of the collision caused the SUV to spin multiple times, during which DeVito was ejected from the vehicle. Both he and the severely damaged SUV ultimately came to rest in a ditch along the east side of the highway. Despite the severity of the crash, the semi-truck driver maintained control of the vehicle and safely brought it to a stop in the right lane.
Officials noted that traffic in the area was heavily congested at the time due to an existing lane closure north of the crash site. Authorities also confirmed that both drivers were wearing seat belts, airbags in the SUV deployed, and alcohol is not believed to have been a contributing factor.
Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including local fire departments, Monroe Community Ambulance, the Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division, MDOT, and units from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Their coordinated efforts focused on emergency response, traffic management, and securing the scene for investigation.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Services Division continues to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash as they work to determine the exact cause of the collision.
Paul M. DeVito’s untimely passing is a heartbreaking loss, and he is remembered in this moment with respect and sympathy. May he rest in peace.
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