JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — May 12, 2025 — A 23-year-old man has been identified as the victim of a tragic single-vehicle crash that occurred early Sunday morning off an exit ramp from Interstate 95 in Jacksonville. The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed the man killed in the crash was Andre Washington, originally from Chicago, Illinois, and a resident of Normal, Illinois. Washington was pronounced dead at the scene after his sedan veered off the I-95 northbound ramp to Southside Boulevard around 6:40 a.m. and struck a tree.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) report, Washington was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, and no other vehicles were involved in the incident. The cause of the vehicle leaving the roadway remains under investigation, with authorities working to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic accident.

The crash resulted in the closure of the northbound I-95 exit ramp to Southside Boulevard for several hours on Sunday morning, causing significant traffic delays in the area. The ramp has since been reopened to traffic, but the incident has left a mark on both local residents and those who knew Andre Washington.

A Promising Young Life Cut Short

Andre Washington was remembered by friends, former colleagues, and acquaintances as a driven and ambitious young man, full of promise. Before his untimely death, Washington had built a successful career, managing and owning Hollister Co., a well-known retail clothing brand that was beloved by many for its fashion-forward approach and casual style. Washington was known for his sharp business acumen and dedication to his work, and those close to him recall his passion for excellence in everything he did.

In addition to his career, Washington was also known for his academic background, having attended Kingsley Jr. High School. His educational journey and work ethic had set him on a path of success, and he had a bright future ahead of him. Those who knew him described Washington as thoughtful, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand. His sudden and tragic death has left many in shock, struggling to come to terms with the loss of someone who had so much potential.

Close Ties to Illinois and Jacksonville

Although Andre Washington had recently been living in Jacksonville, Florida, he maintained strong ties to his roots in Illinois, particularly in the Normal area. Friends and family in both Jacksonville and Illinois are mourning the loss of a man who balanced his ambitions with a deep sense of connection to his family and community. Washington was known for his kindness, his ability to uplift those around him, and his strong sense of integrity. His presence will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

In Jacksonville, where he had made his home in recent years, friends recall his vibrant personality and his eagerness to make a difference in both his professional and personal life. He was an individual who carried his roots with him, always striving to make the most of his opportunities while maintaining close connections with his family and loved ones back home in Illinois.

The Investigation and Community Mourning

While the Florida Highway Patrol has confirmed that Washington was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, the cause of the accident remains under investigation. Authorities have not released additional details regarding potential factors that may have led to the vehicle leaving the roadway. As the investigation continues, many are left wondering about the circumstances that led to such a tragic outcome.

The community, both in Jacksonville and in Illinois, has come together in mourning. Andre Washington’s sudden death has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him. Memorials and tributes are expected to be announced in the coming days as friends, family, and colleagues reflect on the life of a young man who had so much to offer the world.

A Life Remembered

The loss of Andre Washington has not only impacted his family and friends, but also the wider community, particularly in the retail and business circles where he had established himself. As people continue to mourn his untimely passing, they are also sharing stories of his kindness, drive, and ambition, honoring a life that was tragically cut short.

Though the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, what is certain is the impact that Andre Washington had on the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and a bright future that was tragically interrupted far too soon.

In the coming days, a memorial or tribute for Andre Washington is expected to be announced, allowing his family, friends, and community to come together to honor his memory and reflect on the impact he made in the short time he was with us.