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Westlake, FL – The Palm Bay community is mourning the loss of Dr. José García, a dedicated family medicine physician, who tragically passed away in a single-vehicle accident on November 15, 2024. The incident occurred at approximately 11:15 a.m. on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road near the 6800 block.
Dr. García, 55, was driving his 2022 Tesla northbound when he lost control of the vehicle, veered off the roadway, and traversed a grass shoulder before colliding with a tree in a wooded area. According to investigators with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), the car narrowly missed multiple trees before coming to rest between two of them. Emergency responders transported Dr. García to Palms West Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 12:02 p.m. No other vehicles or individuals were involved in the crash, and the cause of the accident remains under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Dr. García’s journey to becoming a physician in the United States was marked by resilience and determination. Born in Cuba, he earned his medical degree in 1986. In 1995, seeking better opportunities, he emigrated to the U.S., where he initially worked various jobs, including as a waiter, gas station attendant, house painter, and gardener, while diligently studying to pass U.S. medical licensing exams. His perseverance led him to join the residency program at Central Washington Family Medicine in Yakima, Washington, affiliated with the University of Washington in Seattle, where he specialized in primary care and family medicine.
In 2011, Dr. García moved to Florida. He dedicated his career to serving the Palm Bay community, focusing on the care of individuals with cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by the Hispanic community, he was instrumental in establishing a medical office at the Brevard Hispanic Center, providing free services to patients without medical insurance. His commitment to improving public health and his compassionate care earned him the admiration of patients and colleagues alike. He provided his services completely free to patients of the Delacruz Volunteer Clinic who do not have medical insurance.
Dr. García is survived by his three daughters and son. In addition to his professional achievements, he was a loving father, devoted to his community.
The Space Coast Rocket offers its heartfelt condolences to Dr. García’s family and all those whose lives he touched.