FORT MCCOY, Fla. — A Community in Mourning After Tragic Motorcycle Crash Claims Life of 27-Year-Old Zack Compton
FORT MCCOY, Fla. — A tragic accident on Friday evening has shaken the tight-knit communities of Fort McCoy and Citra, after 27-year-old Zack Compton lost his life in a fatal collision involving a motorcycle and a sedan. The crash occurred near the intersection of Northeast 160th Avenue and Northeast 150th Street, a rural roadway often frequented by locals and weekend riders.
According to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the accident took place just before sunset. Zack Compton, a well-known resident of Citra, was riding his motorcycle southbound on Northeast 160th Avenue when a sedan traveling in the opposite direction attempted to make a left turn onto Northeast 150th Street. The turning vehicle entered the path of Compton’s motorcycle, resulting in a devastating impact.
Troopers and emergency medical personnel responded swiftly to the scene, but despite efforts to save him, Zack was pronounced dead on arrival due to the severity of his injuries. The driver of the sedan, a 51-year-old woman from Ocala, was reportedly uninjured and remained at the scene to cooperate with law enforcement. FHP stated that the investigation remains ongoing and charges, if any, are pending a full review of the circumstances.
News of the accident has left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken. Zack Compton, remembered by many as a passionate rider and kind-hearted soul, was known for his friendly smile and willingness to lend a hand. He grew up in Marion County and was a familiar face in both Fort McCoy and Citra, where he worked various construction and mechanic jobs over the years. Friends say Zack had a deep love for motorcycles and spent much of his free time riding the back roads of Central Florida.
“He had such a good heart,” said longtime friend and riding partner Josh Reynolds. “Zack was the kind of guy who would stop on the side of the road to help a stranger change a tire. He didn’t deserve to go out this way. We’re all just devastated.”
Tributes began pouring in on social media Friday night as news spread of Zack’s passing. Friends posted photos and stories, remembering him as a generous, fun-loving young man who brought energy and warmth wherever he went. Local residents have organized a candlelight vigil set to take place Sunday evening at a local park in Citra where Zack often met with friends.
Zack’s family, still reeling from the loss, issued a brief statement through a relative: “Our hearts are broken beyond words. Zack was loved deeply by his family and so many in this community. We ask for prayers, privacy, and peace during this unimaginable time.”
FHP is urging all drivers to be extra cautious when navigating rural intersections and to always double-check for motorcycles before making turns. The crash serves as a painful reminder of the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road, especially in low-light conditions.
As the investigation continues and the community grieves, Zack Compton’s life and memory will not be forgotten. His passing leaves a deep void, but also a legacy of kindness, friendship, and a love for the open road that touched many lives.
