LAKE WORTH BEACH, Fla. — A 66-year-old motorcyclist from West Palm Beach has died following a crash at a Lake Worth Beach intersection, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
The crash happened around 11:04 a.m. on Thursday at the intersection of North Dixie Highway and 13th Avenue North. Investigators said a 2014 Hyundai Elantra traveling northbound attempted to make a left turn and entered the path of a southbound motorcycle.
The motorcycle, a 2007 Triumph Speedmaster, struck the right-center portion of the Hyundai. The motorcyclist, identified as John Dudley Dey of West Palm Beach, was transported to St. Mary's Medical Center with critical injuries.
Dey was pronounced dead at the hospital at approximately 8:56 p.m. on Saturday, authorities said.
His sister, Starr Wren, described her brother as someone who left a lasting impression on everyone around him.
"The happiest, funniest, most intelligent man I've ever known. He has a heart as big as the world," said Wren.
Wren said she was shaken when she first learned of the crash.
"When I first got the news, of course, I was devastated. I felt my heart beating out of my chest. I just couldn't believe of all people," said Wren.
Despite holding onto hope during the days Dey spent in the hospital, Wren said the outcome was devastating.
"I was in disbelief, and I just kept praying and believing that he was gonna make it through it."
Friends said Dey was a talented guitarist and carpenter who loved riding motorcycles, loved Jesus, and was known for his compassion.
Wren said she has found some peace, but her grief has since turned to a demand for accountability.
"I've gone from a place of peace now for Johnny, in a place of anger," said Wren. "I want the full truth of exactly what happened."
The 24-year-old driver of the Hyundai was not injured in the crash, investigators said. It is unclear if charges are pending against the driver.
Business owners near the intersection told WPTV reporter Zitlali Solache that crashes there happen often, and they are now calling for safety improvements such as a turning lane or signal.
According to Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Florida continually Ranks in the top three states in the nation for motorcycle-related fatalities. In 2025, Florida recorded a total of 8,910 motorcycle crashes, with 575 being fatal.
The case remains under investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office.
