Bryan Howard: Driver charged with DUI manslaughter after Florida Highway bus crash leaves 8 dead
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
TAMPA, FLORIDA: Florida Highway Patrol arrested a man on charges of manslaughter following a bus crash that resulted in the death of eight persons while numerous others were hospitalized.
The crash occurred on West Highway 40, just west of Southwest 148 Court, at 6.35 am on Tuesday, May 14, as per WFLA.
Subsequent investigations revealed that Bryan Maclean Howard, 41, identified by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) as the driver, was driving the vehicle under the influence.
Troopers arrested him on eight counts of driving under the influence at 1.47 pm.
How did Florida Highway crash take place?
Troopers reported that a collision occurred between a 2010 International bus, carrying 53 farm workers, and a Ford Ranger pickup truck, resulting in the bus veering off the road after being sideswiped.
Subsequently, the bus crashed into a fence and overturned. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) confirmed that eight persons lost their lives in the accident, with approximately 40 others being hospitalized, according to initial reports from Marion County Fire Rescue.
Of those hospitalized, 38 were confirmed by the rescue team, with eight in a critical condition.
Lt Pat Riordan, a public affairs officer for the FHP, stated, "Some of those are also in very serious condition, so there’s high probability this may be beyond eight fatalities."
Additionally, the driver of the Ford pickup sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Who are the Florida Highway crash victims?
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods stated that the farm workers were migrants employed for agricultural work in Florida. He said, “They’re hard-working individuals, There’s absolutely nothing wrong with them being here.”
Woods mentioned that more than 30 ambulances were deployed to the scene to aid in transporting the victims.
Marion County Public Schools dispatched a school bus to assist in transporting patients for treatment.
AdventHealth Ocala reported treating 12 patients from the crash at their main emergency department and four others at AdventHealth Timber Ridge.
HCA Healthcare disclosed that nine patients, seven of whom were in critical condition, were receiving treatment at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital. Another stable patient was treated at HCA Florida West Marion Hospital.
Lieutenant Riordan confirmed that the crash is being investigated as a traffic homicide, with the Florida Highway Patrol estimating it could take up to six months to complete the investigation.
The bus involved is currently undergoing inspection.
Cannon Farms in Dunnellon announced on Facebook that it would be closed in response to the crash, expressing condolences for the losses and injuries suffered.
The farm requested prayers for the families and loved ones affected by the tragic accident, thanking everyone for their support during this challenging time.
GoFundMe campaign launched for Florida Highway crash victims
The Farmworker Association of Florida initiated a GoFundMe campaign aimed at aiding the victims and their families, with the goal of raising $50,000.
As of Wednesday, May 15, the fundraising campaign has garnered more than $23,000 through over 390 donations.
According to the GoFundMe, "Your consideration in helping these people is greatly appreciated. All proceeds will go to support the victims and their families affected by this terrible accident. Farmworkers tend to be forgotten, but it's important not to forget farmworkers, especially during such difficult times."
