Truck Driver Arrested in Tragic Florida Bus Crash that Claimed 8 Lives
Following a devastating bus crash on a state highway in north-central Florida, emergency officials are preparing for potential further casualties. The bus, believed to be transporting migrant farm workers, resulted in eight fatalities and 45 individuals sustaining injuries.
The driver of the pickup truck in the tragic Tuesday crash in north-central Florida has been arrested. The crash resulted in the death of eight people and left over 40 others injured. The driver has been charged with eight counts of DUI manslaughter, as reported by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in a news release.
The crash occurred around 6:35 a.m., approximately 15 miles west of Ocala. The 2010 International Bus, carrying around 53 farm workers, collided with a 2001 Ford Ranger. The Florida Highway Patrol provided this information in a statement regarding the accident.
Lt. Patrick Riordan of the Florida Highway Patrol said at a news conference that the Ford unexpectedly moved towards the center line before the collision with the other vehicles. The bus then veered off the road, crashed through a fence, and flipped over.
James Lucas from Marion County Fire Rescue reported that eight individuals lost their lives in the accident. Forty-five others were injured and transported to medical facilities, with eight of them in critical condition.
Riordan mentioned that there is a high chance that the number of fatalities may exceed eight. He also pointed out that some of the injured individuals, including the driver of the Ford pickup truck, are in critical condition.
A video from CNN affiliate WESH showed the bus, which Riordan mentioned was transporting workers to a farm in the area, overturned in a field. Nearby, first responders' vehicles were parked with their lights flashing.
"We are currently in the middle of a large traffic homicide investigation," Riordan stated. "We have a full team, and even more, present at the scene. It will likely take us at least six months to determine exactly what happened here today."
Sheriff Billy Woods of Marion County mentioned that they suspect the bus passengers to be migrant workers. He explained, "Our county is heavily involved in agriculture, so it's common for migrant workers to be in the area at this time of year, often traveling on buses like this."
When asked about the immigration status of the workers, Woods mentioned that based on the information he has received, they all have the necessary documentation to be in the country. He also stated that he trusts the individuals and sees no reason to be concerned about their legal status. Woods emphasized that the workers are dedicated and there is no issue with them being present.
In addition, Woods acknowledged that there were some difficulties due to language barriers. However, he mentioned that the sheriff’s office has personnel and support staff who are bilingual and are actively helping with the investigation.
Mexico’s Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena mentioned on Twitter that Mexican workers were part of the accident. She also stated that the Mexican Consulate in Orlando is providing support and consular assistance to them.
The National Transportation Safety Board is keeping an eye on the situation and the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has acknowledged the crash.
"Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the community as FMCSA reviews the information to assist state and local safety officials," a spokesperson from the agency expressed.
According to a post on the Marion County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, the westbound lanes on Highway 40 will be closed for the majority of the day. They are advising drivers to find alternative routes.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
CNN’s Ana Melgar Zugina and Gregory Wallace contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
This tragic crash highlights the devastating consequences of reckless driving. The driver's actions have left behind eight grieving families and countless injured individuals, whose lives will be forever changed. The charges against the driver serve as a reminder of the severe penalties that can result from driving under the influence.
The presence of migrant workers in the crash raises important questions about the challenges and vulnerabilities faced by these individuals. Sheriff Woods's comments acknowledge the vital role they play in the agricultural industry while emphasizing their legal status. The involvement of the Mexican Foreign Minister and the consulate underscores the international impact of this incident. The investigation will likely shed light on the systemic issues that contribute to such tragedies, including language barriers and the safety of migrant workers.
