St. Johns County, FL – Deputies are investigating a late-night crash that left a 58-year-old woman dead after she fell from a golf cart allegedly driven by her intoxicated husband. The case has raised renewed concerns about impaired driving involving golf carts, which are widely used in many Florida communities.
What Investigators Say Happened
According to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, Christina Theodosiou, 58, suffered a fatal head injury after falling out of a moving golf cart driven by her husband, Angelo Theodosiou, 64. The incident happened around 10:45 p.m. on November 30.
Deputies responded after reports of a passenger falling out of a golf cart and sustaining severe trauma.
“The victim, the defendant’s wife, struck her head on the ground and was transported to Jacksonville Memorial Trauma Hospital with a Glasgow of 3,” the arrest report states.
Christina died from her injuries, and Angelo was later identified as the at-fault driver.
Signs of Impairment Noted by Deputies
The arrest report documents several observations made at the scene. Deputies noted the driver’s bloodshot, watery eyes, reddened sclera, and a strong odor of alcohol detectable from several feet away.
Investigators also said Angelo knew a DUI investigation was underway but refused to take part in a standardized sobriety test. While at the jail, he allegedly agreed to provide a breath sample and then changed his mind.
Charges Filed Against the Husband
Angelo Theodosiou faces charges of driving under the influence and refusing to submit to police testing. Records show he bonded out of jail on December 1, one day after his arrest. His next court appearance is scheduled for January 6, 2026.
Deputies highlighted repeated refusals during implied-consent procedures after Angelo initially said he would comply.
Defense Attorney Says Husband Maintains Innocence
Attorney L. Lee Lockett told The St. Johns Citizen that his client denies being impaired and is devastated by his wife’s death.
“My client maintains his innocence… He didn’t cause the accident, he was not impaired,” Lockett said.
“He’s heartbroken, depressed as can be.”
Family members are reportedly supporting Angelo during the investigation. The couple moved to Florida from New York after retirement, where Angelo previously ran a restaurant in Queens.
Neighbors Say Golf Cart Safety Has Long Been a Concern
Residents living near the crash scene told reporters that the community’s high volume of golf cart traffic has sparked safety concerns before.
Witness Christopher Barnes said the dangerous intersection has long worried neighbors.
“It was only a matter of time before someone was in an accident at this intersection.”
Another neighbor, Yariela Farkas, stressed that golf carts still require responsible operation.
“You shouldn’t be drinking and driving. It’s still a vehicle, and it’s still dangerous.”
Growing Safety Issues with Golf Carts in Florida
Golf carts are increasingly popular in retirement communities and coastal neighborhoods, but law enforcement agencies warn that impaired driving laws apply to them the same way they do to cars.
Key safety reminders:
- Never operate a golf cart while impaired.
- Ensure passengers are seated properly at all times.
- Follow local ordinances regarding nighttime driving and lighting requirements.
- Use designated golf cart paths whenever available.
The investigation into Christina’s death remains ongoing, and prosecutors will review evidence ahead of the January hearing.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to golf cart safety in the comments below.
