On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, a collision between a bus carrying farmworkers and a truck resulted in eight deaths and numerous injuries on West Highway 40 on the outskirts of the city of Dunnellon in central Florida. Officials fear the death toll may rise as the investigation continues.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the bus, transporting about 53 farmworkers, was struck by a truck driven by Bryan MacLean Howard, who has since been arrested and charged with eight counts of DUI manslaughter. The collision caused the bus to veer off the road, crash through a fence, and overturn, leading to severe outcomes.
The six identified victims of the crash, ranging in age from 20 to 46, were Jose Heriberto Fraga Acosta, Isaias Miranda Pascal, Manuel Perez Rios, Cristian Salazar Villeda, Alfredo Tovar Sanchez, and Evarado Ventura Hernandez. Two additional Hispanic male victims are yet to be identified.
The arrest report states that Howard admitted to investigators that he had smoked marijuana oil the night before the crash, had taken prescription medication, and had been involved in another accident three days earlier. Records show Howard had a history of 23 traffic offenses dating back to 2003, including a DUI charge in 2008.
Howard claimed no memory of the crash and described the weather as usual and dry. He denied passing or being cut off by other vehicles despite a witness reporting observing his truck swerving earlier that morning. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, though, said the road was rainy and slippery.
Marion County Fire Rescue reported that at least 38 people sustained injuries in the crash. Eight of these victims are in critical condition, while the remaining 30 suffered non-life-threatening injuries. First responders arrived at the scene, providing emergency care and transporting the wounded to local hospitals for further treatment.
The crash occurred at about 6:35 a.m. when Howard’s 2001 Ford Ranger, traveling in the opposite direction, crossed the center line and sideswiped the 2010 International Bus.
“The situation is dire, and there’s a high probability that the number of fatalities could increase,” said Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Patrick Riordan during a press briefing. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” he added, emphasizing the severity of the accident and the ongoing investigation.
The bus was en route to a local farm, adding another layer of complexity to the lives of those who work tirelessly in the agricultural sector. Several passengers were Mexican nationals, a detail confirmed by Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretary Alicia Bárcena. The Mexican consulate in Orlando has stepped in to assist those affected, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and aid during this challenging period.
Law enforcement officials, including investigators from the Florida Highway Patrol, are working to determine the cause of the collision and whether other factors may have contributed to the severe outcome.