FDOT Road Ranger Killed While Assisting Crash on I-75, Bradenton Man Charged With DUI Manslaughter

A Florida Department of Transportation Road Ranger was killed Sunday evening while assisting at the scene of a previous crash on Interstate 75 in Pasco County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Authorities say the Road Ranger was struck by an SUV driven by a Bradenton man who has since been arrested and charged with DUI manslaughter.

The tragic incident highlights the dangers first responders and roadside assistance workers face every day while helping stranded motorists and managing crash scenes.

What We Know About the Crash

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred shortly before 8:30 p.m. on July 12, 2026, on Interstate 75 near Mile Marker 274 in Wesley Chapel.

Investigators reported that:

• FDOT Road Rangers had responded to a separate two-vehicle crash to assist with traffic control.
• A 24-year-old Road Ranger from Brandon was on foot setting up a lane closure.
• An Acura SUV drove between two FDOT Road Ranger vehicles.
• The SUV struck the Road Ranger while he was working in the roadway.

The 24-year-old Road Ranger died at the scene from his injuries.

Authorities have not yet publicly released his identity.

Driver Arrested on DUI Manslaughter Charge

The Florida Highway Patrol identified the driver as 40-year-old Darren Jenkins of Bradenton.

Following the crash, investigators arrested Jenkins on a charge of DUI manslaughter.

According to FHP, Jenkins provided breath samples measuring 0.334, more than four times Florida’s legal blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.08.

He was transported to the Pasco County Jail following his arrest.

The charges are allegations, and Jenkins is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Investigation Continues

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the fatal crash.

Investigators will likely examine:

• The driver’s speed at the time of the collision.
• Impairment.
• The placement of traffic control devices.
• Visibility within the work zone.
• Vehicle event data.
• Witness statements.
• Dash camera or surveillance footage, if available.

Additional charges could be considered depending on the outcome of the investigation.

The Importance of Florida’s Move Over Law

Florida law requires motorists to move over one lane, when it is safe to do so, or slow significantly when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, law enforcement, fire rescue units, tow trucks, sanitation vehicles, utility vehicles, and FDOT Road Rangers displaying emergency or warning lights.

The Move Over Law is designed to protect roadside workers who routinely place themselves in dangerous environments to assist stranded drivers and respond to emergencies.

Failure to comply with the law can result in citations, fines, and, in tragic cases involving serious injury or death, much more significant criminal consequences.

DUI Manslaughter Under Florida Law

Florida Statute §316.193 provides that a person who causes the death of another while operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be charged with DUI manslaughter, a second-degree felony.

Depending on the circumstances, penalties may include:

• Lengthy prison sentences.
• Significant fines.
• Permanent revocation of driving privileges.
• Probation and other court-imposed sanctions.

When alcohol impairment results in the death of another person, prosecutors often pursue the most serious charges supported by the evidence.

Potential Legal Options for the Road Ranger’s Family

In addition to the criminal prosecution, the Road Ranger’s surviving family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §§768.16–768.26).

A civil wrongful death action is separate from the criminal case and seeks financial compensation from the person or parties responsible for the death.

Depending on the circumstances, eligible surviving family members may be able to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses.
• Medical expenses incurred before death.
• Loss of financial support and future earnings.
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection.
• Mental pain and suffering for eligible survivors.

If additional evidence reveals that other negligent parties contributed to the crash, such as vehicle owners or employers under certain circumstances, those parties may also face civil liability.

Evidence Is Critical in DUI Fatality Cases

Fatal DUI investigations often involve extensive evidence collection to establish both criminal and civil liability.

Important evidence may include:

• Breath and blood alcohol test results.
• Toxicology reports.
• Crash reconstruction analysis.
• Vehicle event data recorder information.
• Dash camera footage.
• Witness statements.
• Measurements and photographs from the crash scene.
• Traffic control and work zone documentation.

Preserving this evidence is essential for determining exactly how the collision occurred and who may be legally responsible.

Investigation Remains Ongoing

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the fatal crash on Interstate 75.

Additional information, including the identity of the Road Ranger and any further legal proceedings, may be released as the investigation progresses.

FDOT Road Rangers work every day to assist stranded motorists, protect crash victims, and keep Florida’s highways safe. The loss of a young Road Ranger while performing those duties is a heartbreaking tragedy. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, coworkers, and everyone affected by this devastating loss.