Kareem Hodge, 13, Passed Away
UPDATE
On February 12, 2024, at 11:38 a.m., Kareem Hodge, 13, died from injuries sustained during the deadly dirt bike crash.
UPDATE
As of Friday evening, PBSO tells us that 13-year-old Kareem Hodge is still in “very critical” condition.
This is contrary to rumors on social media that Hodge has passed away. Those rumors seemingly started immediately after Palm Beach Post published, and since redacted, an article saying that the teen has succumbed to his wounds. According to the conglomerate-owned newspaper, reporting and editing errors lead to their own incorrect reporting of Hodge’s medical status.
Originally reported by Boca Post
LOXAHATCHEE, FL — Kareem Hodge in critical condition following a dirt bike accident near Acreage Pines Elementary.
The crash happened at near the 14200 block of Orange Boulevard at 6:18 PM on Tuesday, February 6th, 2024.
According to PBSO, Kareem Hodge, 13, was unlawfully traveling westbound on the southern pedestrian sidewalk of Orange Boulevard, and was approaching the service exit of a school. At the same time, Carlos Gonzalez, 54, was exiting the school and was northbound on the service exit. After stopping for a stop sign, Gonzalez proceeded slowly past the stop sign, unaware of the quickly approaching dirt bike. Hodge then crashed into Gonzalez.
During the crash, the front of Hodge’s dirt bike violently impacted into the right front of Gonzalez’ car.
As the crash ensued, Hodge traveled over the hood and impacted onto the pavement (within the eastbound lane of Orange Boulevard). Gonzalez brought his vehicle to a controlled stop with the teen partially underneath it.
Hodge was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center and underwent emergency surgery. He remains in critical condition.
PBSO notes that Hodge was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
