A fatal head-on collision in Pace, Florida, claimed the life of a 22-year-old man on Thursday night. The suspected drunk driver, 33-year-old Leslie Highstreet, fled the scene with his dog but was later apprehended by authorities. The accident occurred on County Road 197A, also known as Woodbine Road, near Oak Tree Lane around 9:45 p.m.
Pace, Florida Crash Leaves One Dead, Suspect Charged with DUI Manslaughter
According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Highstreet was driving a pickup truck northbound on Woodbine Road and attempting to pass other vehicles using the continuous turn lane. He then swerved into the southbound lane, colliding head-on with a sedan driven by the 22-year-old victim. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses helped Highstreet and his dog out of the wrecked pickup truck before he fled the scene on foot. A deputy located him southeast of the crash site and, after a struggle that required the use of a taser, took him into custody. Officials reported that Highstreet appeared highly intoxicated.
Highstreet Faces Charges, Refused Blood Alcohol Test Initially
Highstreet was transported to Baptist Hospital in Pensacola for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash. A trooper subsequently arrested him at the hospital and transported him to the Escambia County Jail. He faces charges of DUI manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
Initially, Highstreet refused a blood alcohol test. However, authorities obtained a warrant, and a blood sample was drawn. The results of the blood alcohol test are pending. The investigation into the fatal car accident is ongoing.
The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the tragic incident. This recent fatal car accident in Florida serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving.
