Head-On Crash Kills Driver

A head-on collision in Manatee has killed a 65-year-old driver from Port Charlotte, according to state police.

Mary Perkins was pronounced dead at the scene Saturday, after her Nissan collided with a Ford pickup. The crash occurred just north of Wauchula Road on State Road 37.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the pickup was traveling north but suddenly applied the brakes and drove into the southbound lane and oncoming traffic.

The truck, driven by 38-year-old Jason Dearth of Parrish, collided head-on with Perkins' vehicle. The pickup truck caught fire after the crash.

Dearth was airlifted to an area hospital. His injuries are described as serious.

Police are considering charges in the accident.