Video Released in Fatal Jensen Beach Crash Involving Sheriff’s Deputy and Cyclist
Jensen Beach, Fla. — The Martin County Sheriff’s Office has released video evidence and new details surrounding a July 26 crash in which a deputy responding to a call struck and killed a local cyclist at a Jensen Beach intersection.
The Incident
At approximately 5:26 a.m. on July 26, Deputy Joshua Pease was responding to a separate crash on the Jensen Beach Causeway with his lights and sirens activated. Traveling eastbound through the intersection of Jensen Beach Boulevard and Green River Parkway, Pease entered on a green light while driving 51 mph in a 45 mph zone.
The cyclist, identified as John Mullins, 79, of Jensen Beach, rode diagonally across the intersection outside of the crosswalk. Surveillance video shows Mullins entering the roadway against the light, placing him directly in the deputy’s path. The front passenger side of the patrol vehicle struck Mullins, sending both rider and bike to the ground.
Sheriff’s Office Position
Sheriff John Budensiek, speaking at an August 5 press conference, said Pease’s actions were consistent with department policy:
“He’s legally allowed to carefully exceed the speed limit. It’s not excessive. The deputy is going on a green light eastbound and the bicyclist is going from south to north, across the intersection.”
Budensiek emphasized there was no indication Mullins was wearing headphones, meaning he likely could have heard the sirens. Mullins was wearing a helmet, but it was dislodged during the crash.
Video Footage and Aftermath
Surveillance and body camera footage released this week show the deputy’s patrol SUV striking Mullins before veering into the opposite lanes. Pease quickly stopped, exited his vehicle, and attempted to assist. Body-camera video captures him calling to the injured cyclist and radioing for medical support as backup deputies arrived to help remove the bike and provide aid. Despite immediate efforts, Mullins was later pronounced dead.
Legal and Civil Implications
Authorities confirmed there will be no criminal charges against Deputy Pease, citing his lawful use of emergency speed exemptions and right of way. However, civil litigation remains possible. Legal experts note that the Sheriff’s Office may still face liability in a wrongful death suit brought by Mullins’ family, particularly if attorneys argue alternative evasive actions could have avoided the collision.
Broader Context
The tragedy comes as cycling fatalities remain a persistent problem in Florida, which regularly ranks among the most dangerous states for cyclists in the nation. Safety advocates point to the need for clearer awareness campaigns for both motorists and cyclists, especially at early hours when visibility and perception of speed can be reduced.
The fatal crash in Jensen Beach highlights the fragile dynamics of emergency response driving, cyclist safety, and legal accountability. While Deputy Pease acted within policy and law, the death of John Mullins underscores the risks on Florida’s roads and raises the possibility of a civil case even in the absence of criminal charges.
