LANTANA, Fla. — The Palm Beach County community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 39-year-old Joshua Rene of Lantana, who was killed Tuesday evening in a motorcycle crash on South Congress Avenue. The collision, reported shortly before 7 p.m. near the 6200 block close to the entrance of Atlantis Plaza, brought a swift emergency response but ended in tragedy as Rene was pronounced dead at the scene. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the devastating incident.
According to investigators, the crash occurred when Clifton Donald Jackson, 50, of Stuart, was driving a 2003 GMC Sierra southbound and attempted a left turn into Atlantis Plaza from the inside left-turn lane. At the same time, Rene was traveling northbound in the outside lane on his 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Investigators say Jackson failed to see the oncoming motorcycle and turned directly into its path, leaving Rene with no time to react. The impact struck the motorcycle on the front passenger side of the truck, throwing Rene into the outside northbound lane, where both he and the motorcycle came to rest.
Despite wearing a helmet, Rene suffered fatal injuries. Jackson, who was wearing a seatbelt, was not hurt in the collision. Deputies noted that the T-intersection where the crash occurred has no traffic control signals, a factor that may play a role in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not said whether Jackson will face criminal charges as they continue to gather evidence and review witness statements.
News of Joshua Rene’s death has left his family, congregation, and the wider community in deep sorrow. Joshua was the Executive Pastor at The Journey Church, a non-denominational Christian church in West Palm Beach, where he served with humility, compassion, and unwavering faith. He leaves behind his wife, Brianna Rene, and their four children—an unimaginable loss for a family now grieving the sudden absence of a devoted husband and father.
The Journey Church released an emotional statement following the tragedy, reflecting the immense grief felt by the congregation. “As a church community, we are heartbroken over the loss of our beloved Pastor Josh,” the statement read. “Please pray with us for the Rene family and join us on Sunday for an official message from Pastor Scott.” Members of the church have been gathering to offer prayers, share memories, and provide support to the grieving family.
As the sheriff’s office continues its investigation, the community remains united in honoring the life and legacy of Pastor Joshua Rene. His impact—spiritual, personal, and deeply human—will continue to echo through the lives he touched, both inside and beyond the walls of his church.
