Tampa Driver Arrested for DUI Manslaughter After Deadly Motorcycle Crash: What Victims’ Families Need to Know

A devastating motorcycle crash in Tampa early Saturday morning has left one man dead and another facing serious felony charges. According to the Tampa Police Department, 50-year-old Mauricus Green was arrested for DUI manslaughter after causing a fatal collision on County Line Road East and Grand Hampton Drive.

The crash occurred around 2:30 a.m., when a motorcyclist traveling eastbound on a 2012 Kawasaki approached the intersection. Green, who was driving a Nissan Rogue, was traveling westbound and attempted a southbound turn onto Grand Hampton Drive. Officers say he violated the motorcyclist’s right of way, causing the motorcycle to strike the front of the SUV.

The motorcyclist was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he tragically died from his injuries. Police reported that Green exhibited signs of impairment and remained on scene, where he was arrested on DUI manslaughter charges.

DUI manslaughter is one of the most serious charges under Florida law. Under Florida Statutes §316.193, a driver commits DUI manslaughter when:

• They operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and
• Their impaired driving causes the death of another human being.

Penalties include:

• Mandatory minimum 4-year prison sentence
• Up to 15 years in prison
• Permanent felony record
• License revocation
• Substantial fines

While the criminal case addresses punishment for the offender, it does not compensate the victim’s family for their loss. That requires a separate civil claim.

Based on early reports:

• Green attempted a turn and failed to yield to the oncoming motorcyclist
• He showed signs of impairment, according to Tampa police
• The collision occurred at the front end of the Nissan Rogue
• Green remained on scene, where he was taken into custody

In DUI crashes, liability typically extends beyond the at-fault driver, depending on the circumstances. A thorough investigation may uncover additional responsible parties.

Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Motorcycle Crash

Families of fatal DUI crash victims may pursue a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §768.16–768.26).

This allows surviving family members — including spouses, children, and sometimes parents — to recover compensation for:

Economic Losses

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills from attempts to save the victim
• Loss of the victim’s expected earnings

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering of surviving family
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection
• Mental anguish and emotional trauma

Punitive Damages

In DUI cases, punitive damages may be available to punish extremely reckless or egregious conduct — including driving under the influence.

What Families Should Do After a DUI Fatality

After a fatal crash, families often face shock, grief, and uncertainty. However, critical evidence must be preserved immediately. An experienced legal team can step in to protect your rights.

Families should:

• Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before consulting with an attorney
• Preserve any photos, messages, or information related to the crash
• Request a copy of the police report when available
• Seek support for emotional and psychological trauma

In DUI cases, key evidence includes:

• Body camera footage
• DUI evaluations
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
• 911 audio
• Intersection lighting and visibility conditions
• Event data recorder (“black box”) from involved vehicles

Time is critical — trucking companies, insurance adjusters, and defense teams act immediately to limit their exposure.

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we handle a limited caseload to give each family the attention, compassion, and legal skill their case deserves. We have recovered millions for victims and families throughout Florida and take on complex cases other firms reject.

We handle:

• Fatal motorcycle crashes
• DUI and impaired-driving collisions
• Wrongful death claims involving catastrophic impact

You pay nothing unless we win.

Our attorneys represent families across Tampa, Hillsborough County, and the entire state of Florida. If you or someone you know was affected by this tragedy, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.

We are committed to seeking justice, uncovering the truth, and holding negligent drivers fully accountable.