Hazel Krauss Gainesville, FL Death: 19-Year-Old University of Florida Freshman Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle on West University Avenue, Police Investigate Fatal Crash

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA — October 26, 2026 — A tragic pedestrian accident in Gainesville has claimed the life of Hazel Krauss, a 19-year-old University of Florida (UF) freshman, who died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing West University Avenue on Saturday night, October 24, 2026.

The fatal collision has brought renewed attention to pedestrian safety near the University of Florida campus as Gainesville police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident.

What Happened to Hazel Krauss in Gainesville?

According to the Gainesville Police Department, the deadly crash occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the 2300 block of West University Avenue.

Preliminary reports indicate that a vehicle traveling eastbound swerved to avoid another vehicle. During the maneuver, the driver’s vehicle struck Krauss as she was crossing the roadway.

The vehicle also collided with the other automobile, leaving investigators working to determine the precise sequence of events that led to the fatal accident.

A nurse who was nearby immediately assisted Krauss before emergency medical services arrived.

Despite efforts to save her life, Krauss was transported to UF Health Shands Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Who Was Hazel Krauss? University of Florida Student Identified

Authorities identified the victim as Hazel Krauss, a 19-year-old freshman enrolled at the University of Florida.

University officials confirmed that Krauss was studying in the Warrington College of Business, where she had begun pursuing her higher education.

Her sudden death represents a heartbreaking loss of a young student whose college journey had only recently begun.

Gainesville Police Investigate Fatal West University Avenue Crash

Gainesville Police Department spokesperson Art Forgey confirmed that investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Authorities believe Krauss may have been standing near the double yellow lines dividing the roadway when the vehicle struck her.

Police have also addressed online speculation about whether the driver involved was intoxicated.

According to Forgey, the driver who struck Krauss was not intoxicated. An unrelated motorist was arrested for driving under the influence after allegedly entering the blocked crash scene during the investigation.

Officials emphasized that the separate DUI arrest was not connected to the original fatal collision.

As of October 26, no arrests had been announced in connection with Krauss’s death, and the investigation remained ongoing.

University Avenue Pedestrian Safety Concerns

The fatal accident has once again highlighted concerns surrounding pedestrian safety along West University Avenue, a heavily traveled roadway near the University of Florida.

The area experiences considerable pedestrian and vehicle traffic, particularly during evenings and weekends when students travel between campus, residential neighborhoods, restaurants, and entertainment establishments.

Previous serious pedestrian crashes along the corridor have prompted discussions about traffic enforcement, roadway improvements, and measures intended to protect students.

Latest Updates on Hazel Krauss’s Death

As Gainesville police continue their investigation, officials have not publicly announced a final determination regarding responsibility for the collision.

Additional information may become available as investigators review evidence and complete their findings.

The death of Hazel Krauss is a devastating reminder of the dangers associated with pedestrian-vehicle collisions. Her passing leaves a young life tragically cut short as the Gainesville community confronts another fatal roadway incident.

Further updates will depend on official findings from the Gainesville Police Department and the University of Florida.