DEADLY ACCIDENT: Utility Locator Hit By Distracted Driver, Killed

by News Desk | Aug 3, 2022 · 6:44 am | West Palm Beach News

Utility Locator Hit By Distracted Driver, Killed

Last Updated: Feb 23, 2026 · 6:30 pm

Join the conversation.

Most reader discussion happens on our Facebook page. Follow Boca Post for breaking news and join the conversation.

This Advertising Spot Is Available

Reach Boca Raton readers daily through trusted local news coverage.

Secure this placement and get your business in front of thousands of local readers.

Limited placements available. Local businesses only.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Boca Post) — PBSO responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian accident near Australian Ave and Southern Boulevard in unincorporated Palm Beach County at 4 PM on August 2nd, 2022.

According to traffic homicide investigators, 56-year-old Julio Figueroa, a utility locator, was working in the median when he was struck by 55-year-old Christopher Sadej who investigators say was 'distracted'.

Investigators say Sadej was driving a Chevy Malibu westbound on Southern Boulevard near the 3000 block, which is near the intersection of Australian Ave. Figueroa was working on the center median in the 3000 block of Southern Boulevard marking utilities.

Sadej was distracted and drifted to the left. Vehicle 1 struck the median with the driver-side tires. Sadej's car mounted the curb and the front of Sadej's car collided with Figueroa as he was working. Figueroa struck the windshield and vaulted off the driver's side. Sadej stopped the car west of the collision scene in the inside westbound lanes. Figueroa tumbled in the center median and came to rest west of the collision scene in the center median.

Figueroa was pronounced dead on the scene by Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Sadej received minor injuries during the collision.

PBSO has not said what Sadej was distracted by during the time of the accident. PBSO has not indicated whether or not charges are pending.

Looking for information on recent Boca Raton car accidents? We track them as they happen.

BSO Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in Weston Assault and Indecent Exposure Case

BSO Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in Weston Assault and Indecent Exposure Case

BSO detectives in Weston are asking for help identifying a man caught on surveillance video assaulting a woman while exposing himself in public.

Former Parkland Commissioner, State Lawmaker Mark Weissman Dies at 77

Former Parkland Commissioner, State Lawmaker Mark Weissman Dies at 77

The City of Parkland is remembering former City Commissioner and former state lawmaker Mark Weissman, who served in multiple elected roles over two decades and has died at 77.

Motorcyclist Seriously Hurt in Lantana Crash

Motorcyclist Seriously Hurt in Lantana Crash

A motorcyclist was thrown from the bike and seriously hurt after a crash with a Volkswagen Tiguan at Hypoluxo Road and Sea Pines Way in Lantana, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

BSO hosting free medication drop-off and shred event Saturday in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

BSO Hosting Free Medication Drop-off and Shred Event Saturday in Lauderdale-by-the-sea

BSO will hold a free Operation Medicine Cabinet and Shred-A-Thon event Saturday in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea with medication disposal and on-site document shredding.

FDLE issues Missing Child Alert for 16-year-old girl in Florida

FDLE Issues Missing Child Alert for 16-year-old Girl in Florida

FDLE has issued a Florida Missing Child Alert for 16-year-old Naomi Cernik, and authorities are asking anyone with information to call the Clay County Sheriff’s Office or 911.