Marion County, Florida – A tragic bus crash in Marion County has led to criminal charges against the driver of a pickup truck involved in the collision. The Florida Highway Patrol announced that the driver, identified as Bryan Maclean Howard, 41, was under the influence when his truck sideswiped a bus carrying farmworkers, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals.

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred on SR-40, west of SW 148 Court, on the outskirts of Dunnellon. Reports indicate that a 2010 retired International school bus, transporting over 50 farmworkers, was traveling west on SR-40 when Howard’s 2001 Ford Ranger truck, traveling in the opposite direction, collided with it. The impact caused the bus to veer off the road, crash through a fence, strike a tree, and overturn.

Legal Ramifications

Following the crash, Howard was arrested and charged with eight counts of DUI manslaughter. This marks a significant escalation in Howard’s criminal history, which includes prior charges such as driving with a suspended license, leaving the scene of a crash, trespassing, drug possession, and grand theft, according to court records.

Injury and Casualty Report

The devastating crash resulted in the loss of eight lives, with at least 40 individuals sustaining injuries. The injured were rushed to local hospitals, with over 30 people requiring medical attention. As of the latest update from AdventHealth Ocala, eight individuals remain in critical condition, while others are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Impact on the Community

The bus passengers were employees of a farming company, highlighting the impact of this tragedy on the local agricultural community. The identities of the deceased will be released pending notification of their next of kin.

Ongoing Investigation

The Florida Highway Patrol has assured the public of a comprehensive investigation into the crash, emphasizing their commitment to both traffic crash analysis and criminal inquiry.

Our sympathies and prayers are with the families of the deceased, stated the Florida Highway Patrol in a formal statement.

Conclusion: Stay Updated

As this story continues to unfold, it serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of impaired driving. Stay informed with real-time updates on The Local News App to understand the evolving developments surrounding this tragic incident. Download now to receive the latest news directly to your device.

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