A devastating bus crash in central Florida has claimed the lives of eight farmworkers and left dozens more injured. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning when a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by Bryan Howard, 41, crossed the center line of State Road 40 and collided with a bus carrying 53 farmworkers to a watermelon field in Dunnellon.
All eight individuals who lost their lives were Mexican citizens in the U.S. on H-2A farmworker visas. The victims have been identified as Evarado Ventura Hernández, Cristian Salazar Villeda, Alfredo Tovar Sánchez, Isaías Miranda Pascal, José Heriberto Fraga Acosta, and Manuel Pérez Ríos.
The injured workers, many of whom are in serious or critical condition, were taken to AdventHealth Ocala hospital for treatment. The Mexican consulate in Orlando is providing support to the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Authorities have arrested Bryan Howard, the driver responsible for the crash, on charges of driving under the influence-manslaughter. Howard, who has a history of driving violations, pleaded not guilty during a court appearance and remains in jail without bond.
Florida is a hub for H-2A farmworkers, with approximately 50,000 individuals coming to the state each year on seasonal or temporary visas to work in agriculture. Marion County, where the crash occurred, is known for its picturesque countryside and horse farms.
A memorial service was held for the victims outside the Farmworker Association of Florida office in Apopka, where mourners gathered to pay their respects and honor the lives lost in this tragic event.
