Eight people were killed and 38 were injured, with 8 in critical condition, when a bus carrying about 53 farmworkers was hit by a truck and overturned on West Highway 40 in central Florida. The truck driver, Bryan Maclean Howard, was arrested on eight counts of driving under the influence-manslaughter according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 6:35 am on May 14, 2024, and officials fear the death toll may rise.
The bus and truck were traveling in opposite directions when the truck veered toward the center line and collided with the bus in a sideswiped manner, causing the bus to veer off the highway, go through a fence, and overturn. The bus was on its way to a farm in the area at the time of the crash. Officials stated that some of the farm workers involved were Mexican, and the Mexican consulate in Orlando is offering support to those affected.
In addition to the fatalities and injuries, 30 people have non-life-threatening injuries, and Howard, the truck driver, was among those hospitalized. The investigations into the crash are ongoing, with the Florida Highway Patrol and Fire Rescue looking into the cause of the accident. The crash occurred in Marion County, Florida, and officials are working to determine the full extent of the damage and casualties.
The seriousness of the crash has prompted a large response from emergency services, with Marion County Fire Rescue and other agencies working to assist those involved in the accident. The crash has caused shock and grief in the community, with the high number of casualties highlighting the dangers of road accidents and the importance of safe driving practices. The investigation into the crash will shed light on the circumstances that led to the tragedy and potentially help prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretary, Alicia Bárcena, confirmed that some of the farm workers involved in the crash were Mexican nationals. The Mexican consulate in Orlando has stepped in to offer assistance to those affected by the crash, providing support and resources to the victims and their families. The crash has had a devastating impact on the farmworker community, and efforts are underway to provide aid and support to those affected by the tragic event.
In conclusion, the fatal bus crash in central Florida has resulted in eight deaths and multiple injuries, with officials warning of a possible increase in the death toll. The crash occurred early in the morning on May 14, 2024, when a truck collided with the bus, causing it to overturn. The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with emergency services responding to the scene to assist those involved. The crash has had a significant impact on the community, with resources being mobilized to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
