The communities of Bronson and Newberry, Florida, are mourning the tragic loss of Quinton Kuykendall, who passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026, following a devastating two-vehicle collision on State Road 24 near the Alachua-Levy County line . He was 30 years old .
Quinton’s unexpected passing has left his family, friends, former teammates, and neighbors heartbroken as they remember a man known for his kindness, loyalty, humor, and unwavering dedication to the people he loved. Above all, those closest to him remember his deep devotion to his young son and the joy he found in being a father.
The Crash: What Happened
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 7:09 a.m. along State Road 24, just east of NE 116th Street on the Levy County side of the county line . Investigators reported that Quinton was driving a westbound pickup truck behind another pickup truck driven by a 55-year-old Ocala man .
The Ocala driver was slowing down within the westbound lane to make a left turn into a private driveway when Quinton’s vehicle was unable to slow in time to avoid a collision . The front of Quinton’s pickup struck the rear of the slowing truck . Following the impact, Quinton’s truck came to rest on the north shoulder, while the other vehicle came to rest on the south shoulder .
Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Quinton was pronounced dead at the scene . The driver of the other vehicle, who was wearing a seatbelt, was not injured . The Florida Highway Patrol report does not specify whether Quinton was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the accident . Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash .
A Standout Athlete at Newberry High School
Before becoming a devoted father, Quinton was widely recognized throughout North Central Florida as a talented athlete. A graduate of Newberry High School’s Class of 2014, he was a standout member of the Panthers football program, competing as both a wide receiver and safety. His athletic ability, determination, and team-first mindset earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and supporters.
Those who played alongside Quinton remember him as an athlete who gave everything on the field. His work ethic and dedication to the sport inspired his teammates and contributed to the Panthers’ competitive spirit during his time with the program. Football was not merely a sport for Quinton—it was a platform through which he built character, forged lifelong friendships, and developed the discipline that would serve him well in all areas of life.
Coaches who worked with Quinton recall a young man who was coachable, respectful, and always striving to improve. He understood the importance of teamwork and never sought personal glory over the success of the team. These qualities made him a natural leader in the locker room and a role model for younger players who looked up to him.
The Greatest Role: Fatherhood
While many remember Quinton for his achievements on the football field, those closest to him say his greatest accomplishment was the love and care he gave as a father. Friends describe him as a parent who dedicated himself to creating special memories, making his son laugh, and providing constant support and encouragement.
Quinton’s devotion to his son was evident in everything he did. He was present at every important moment, always ready with a smile, a word of encouragement, or a comforting hug. His son was the center of his world, and he found his greatest joy in watching him grow and thrive.
Those who witnessed Quinton as a father describe a man who was patient, loving, and deeply committed. He understood that being a parent was the most important job he would ever have, and he approached it with the same intensity and dedication he brought to the football field. The bond he shared with his son was one of the defining relationships of his life.
A Friend to All
Beyond sports and family, Quinton was known for his genuine friendship and compassionate nature. He had a way of making people feel valued and supported, whether through a meaningful conversation, a joke that lifted someone’s spirits, or simply being present when others needed him.
Quinton’s loyalty to his friends was unwavering. He was the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone in need, offering support without judgment and friendship without conditions. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life made him a beloved figure in both the Bronson and Newberry communities.
His sense of humor was legendary among those who knew him well. Quinton had a gift for finding the lighter side of any situation and using laughter to bring people together. His jokes and playful spirit created lasting memories and strengthened the bonds he shared with friends and family.
Community Tributes and Remembrances
Following news of his passing, heartfelt tributes have been shared by former teammates, classmates, relatives, and community members across Bronson, Newberry, and beyond. Many have reflected on his unforgettable personality, generosity, and the lasting impression he left on those around him.
Social media has been filled with messages of condolence and remembrance. Former teammates have shared stories of Quinton’s athletic prowess and his leadership on the football field. Classmates have recalled his kindness and his ability to make everyone feel included. Community members have expressed their shock and sadness, offering support to the Kuykendall family during this unimaginably difficult time.
The North Central Florida community is known for its resilience and its ability to come together in times of tragedy. The outpouring of support for Quinton’s family reflects the depth of the impact he had on those around him and the collective grief of a community that has lost one of its own.
A Life That Mattered
Quinton Kuykendall will be remembered as a loving father, cherished family member, loyal friend, and respected athlete whose life touched many throughout Newberry and Bronson. Though his time was tragically shortened, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to live on.
His legacy is not defined by the tragic circumstances of his death but by the way he lived his life—with passion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. He showed others what it means to be a dedicated father, a loyal friend, and a person of integrity.
The lessons Quinton imparted through his life will endure. His dedication to his son, his loyalty to his friends, and his commitment to excellence in all he pursued serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. His story is a reminder that the measure of a life is not its length but the depth of its impact on others.
Honoring a Young Life
Heartfelt condolences are extended to the Kuykendall family, especially his son, as well as his friends, former teammates, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking loss. May they find comfort in the memories they hold close and strength in the support of the community surrounding them.
As the Florida Highway Patrol continues its investigation, the community remains united in its grief and its commitment to honoring Quinton’s memory. His life, though cut short, was rich with meaning and purpose, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Quinton Kuykendall will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored by the Bronson and Newberry communities. His spirit of kindness, dedication, and love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
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