Bryan Maclean Howard, a Florida pickup truck driver, is accused of killing eight migrant farmworkers and injuring dozens in a fatal crash. He admitted to authorities that he had smoked marijuana oil, taken prescription medications, and was on his way to a methadone clinic before the wreck. Howard allegedly drove his pickup into the center line on State Road 40 in Ocala and sideswiped a bus, causing it to crash and flip over. He pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence-manslaughter charges during his initial court hearing.
Howard admitted to investigators that he had smoked marijuana oil, taken anti-seizure drugs, and medication for high blood pressure before the fatal crash. He claimed he doesn’t remember the crash and stated that he was driving to the methadone clinic where he receives daily medication for a chipped vertebra. Howard displayed bloodshot and watery eyes, as well as slurred speech after the crash. He failed several sobriety tests, and it was reported that he had a long history of driving offenses.
Howard has a history of driving offenses, including multiple crashes and traffic tickets dating back to 2006. Court records show that he has had his license suspended at least three times, with the latest suspension in 2021 for accumulating too many citations within a year. In 2013, he was convicted of grand theft, and his probation was later revoked for testing positive for cocaine. Howard’s bond was denied during his court hearing, with the next court appearance scheduled for the following month.
The Mexican consulate in Orlando is working to support the victims of the crash. Seven workers, including three in critical condition, remain hospitalized after the incident. The workers were on their way to harvest watermelon when the crash occurred. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador stated that 44 Mexican farmworkers were on the bus, hired by a Mexican American farmer under H-2A visas. Six of the deceased workers have been identified so far.
The ongoing investigation revealed that Howard has a track record of driving violations and substance abuse issues. The severity of the crash and the loss of life have prompted calls for justice for the victims and their families. The Mexican consulate is providing assistance to those affected by the tragedy. The court’s decision to deny bond for Howard reflects the seriousness of the charges against him. The community is mourning the loss of the migrant farmworkers and calling for increased safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
