Obituary and Death: Eight farmworkers killed, dozens injured, and driver arrested for DUI manslaughter in tragic bus crash in Ocala, Florida, on May 15, 2024.
The farmworkers, mostly migrants, were on their way to Cannon Farms in Dunnellon when the bus was sideswiped by a pickup truck driven by Bryan Maclean Howard, who is facing eight counts of DUI-manslaughter. The crash resulted in eight fatalities, over 40 injuries, and a massive traffic homicide investigation. The victims were mostly migrant workers, and the incident has raised concerns about farmworker safety and regulations. The Florida Highway Patrol and local authorities are conducting an exhaustive investigation, and the community is coming together to support the affected families.
The accident occurred on State Route 40 when Howard’s pickup truck crossed into the center line and sideswiped the bus, causing it to veer off the road and overturn. The bus was carrying 53 farmworkers, and the impact resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities. The victims were taken to local hospitals, with many in critical condition. The incident has sparked an outpouring of support from the community, with the Farmworker Association of Florida setting up a GoFundMe account to help the victims and their families.
The driver, Bryan Maclean Howard, has been arrested and charged with eight counts of DUI-manslaughter. According to records, Howard has a history of traffic offenses, including driving on a suspended license and leaving the scene of an accident. The Florida Highway Patrol is conducting a thorough investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The incident has raised concerns about farmworker safety and regulations. The Labor Department has announced new seat belt requirements for employer vehicles used for farmworkers on temporary visas, which will take effect on June 28. However, the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association has opposed the seat belt requirement, calling it “impractical.” The incident has sparked a renewed call for greater regulations and protections for farmworkers, who are often migrants and face hazardous working conditions.
The victims of the accident were mostly migrant workers who were on their way to Cannon Farms in Dunnellon. The farm has been harvesting watermelons and employs many migrant workers. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of these workers and the need for greater protections. The Mexican Consulate in Orlando has offered support to the affected families and is working to provide assistance.
The community is coming together to support the affected families, with local organizations and individuals offering financial and emotional support. The Central Florida Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk (Impaired) Driving is providing resources and support to the families of the victims. The incident has sparked a renewed call for awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The incident has also raised concerns about the need for greater regulations and protections for farmworkers. The Labor Department’s new seat belt requirements are a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure the safety of these workers. The incident has sparked a renewed call for greater awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In conclusion, the tragic bus crash in Ocala, Florida, has resulted in eight fatalities, dozens of injuries, and a massive traffic homicide investigation. The incident has raised concerns about farmworker safety and regulations and has sparked a renewed call for greater awareness and action to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community is coming together to support the affected families, and local organizations and individuals are offering financial and emotional support.
